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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.990 2024-2026From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Constance Rose <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:58 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION I r fill oil Comm. M-.. x�,Aqo_ Ref. To: THIIIA41 A, Ref. Date'JUL We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Constance Rose via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Constance Rose at quaynaat@)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marilyn Rose <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:15 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIZde Time I I ,00 a•A. Date AL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. Tolm%w_ Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Marilyn Rose via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marilyn Rose at mariLyn0420 yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Suzanne Rosebrough <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:12 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED I l:00 Time a.rt. sy Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To. Ref. Date ' UL 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Suzanne Rosebrough via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Suzanne Rosebrough at a1 densmom(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Blanca Salgado <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:26 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1(.00 6.0k, BY Date JOL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: U Ref. Date ' L We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Blanca Salgado via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Blanca Salgado at blancasalgado89(d)gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Desiree Salmo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:13 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11:00 &A1. By Date XUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. T. U Ref. Date J L 3 2025, We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Desiree Salmo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Desiree Salmo at desireesalmoCa-)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robin Scherer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:48 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI,I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time l I :00 a(A• By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To:T"uol Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Robin Scherer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robin Scherer at furryfriendsnet()aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dionne Christine Schultz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:56 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I1*.WQ.ik, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date ' L 2 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Dionne Christine Schultz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dionne Christine Schultz at christineC@getliferight.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelly Scott <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:50 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11 %0 a^, BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. o OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date JUL 2 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kelly Scott via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly Scott at iikascottCa)msn.com. From: advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ronelle Shankle <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:52 PM COUNTY CLERIC To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Qdf'k , By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. R OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. _ — eF. To:11 Ref. Date UL 2 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ronelle Shankle via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ronelle Shankle at rnelle65Ccbgmail com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gretchen Archibald <advocate@ mail.action button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAVAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED T a ine By lr ,6-, To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: J �' Z 2 �025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Savannah Sherman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Savannah Sherman at ssherman(o)fsu.edu. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sharon Shook-reynolds <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:19 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time I (:00 LI-A, sy Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: 1 Ref. Date Jill 2 2 2021. We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sharon Shook-reynolds via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sharon Shook-reynolds at sunshineshook(o-)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Theresa Short <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:02 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED ,__/ Time 11.00 (A.P►. By ---- Date JUL 2 2 ZAZS I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. o _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Theresa Short via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Theresa Short at short.theresarCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Surendar Singh <advocate @mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:17 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11: 00 6 A - sy Date AL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. K0 _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date JUL 2 8 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Surendar Singh via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Surendar Singh at q7sksin(@gmait.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kim Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:34 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11,00a.1h, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: { Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kim Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kim Smith at coach_ kimmieCabicloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Timothy Stewart <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:16 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIZdy� Time 11:00O.fK.,, Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and., join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. - _ Ref. To: Ref. Date JW 2 a.2U5 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Timothy Stewart via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Timothy Stewart at khksandie_go a yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelly Anne Tausaga <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:52 PM COUIv1Y To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I I:00 A.h- �t To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. o — Ref. To: U� Ref. DateL UL 2 3 - 25 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kelly Anne Tausaga via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly Anne Tausaga at kettyanneaipa(@gmaiL..com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Pamela Thompson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:53 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �b,( Time 11:00 ayh. sy Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. o _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: _ Ref. Date aL 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Pamela Thompson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Pamela Thompson at hulali2130bgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Thrasher <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:14 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECTime (�:Ofl a.rkElVEBy� Date AL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date J L 3 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Jessica Thrasher via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Thrasher at Jessica thrasherCo)gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nicholas Tillger <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:18 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF RAWAI'I RECEIVED Time 1:00 CIA, By�_ Date JUL 2 2 Z025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. o. _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date AL 2 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Nicholas Tillger via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nicholas Tillger at nicktillger06@comcast net. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Tucker <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:49 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED _ , _ 1 Time (l :Ot7 a.m. By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. . — OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lisa Tucker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lisa Tucker at theotherone72C@hotmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of John Uhley <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:05 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED W Time ( (:00 am. W Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date : UL 2 3 � Z We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by John Uhley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to John Uhley at uhley(o)uhley.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kara Vaughn <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:12 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF IiAWAi Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time P:a.m- W Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. o — OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: i Ref. Date JUL 2 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kara Vaughn via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kara Vaughn at kvainikoloCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Myra Vavrina <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:58 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVE Time 1:00 Q.yn. By. Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. o _ OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date V2 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Myra Vavrina via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Myra Vavrina at myraerm(o)hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tawny Villarreal <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:28 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED ,, Time G.M • W Date JVL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. No — OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date J 2 2 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tawny Villarreal via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tawny Villarreal at t okemura(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michelle Walloconnor <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:19 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time l I :00 d,n . By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. _ Ref. To: Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Michelle Walloconnor via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michelle Walloconnor at michellesmassag��;mail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Warashina <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:51 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1(.00p..r►t , By. Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm.ly - OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. To: Ref. Date _ 3 2025 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Linda Warashina via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Warashina at 808pause gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nicole Welch <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:50 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED,, I I:00 a.m. Time y�_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. o - Ref. To: Ref. Date 3 CUcq We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Nicole Welch via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nicole Welch at nunger11 Pgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sandi Wickersham <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:01 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVE Time 1 1 %00 OL.rN , BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. Comm. — OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Ref. T0T9ffPL_ Ref. Date We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sandi Wickersham via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sandi Wickersham at sandatbeach@)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Witters <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:04 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. Ref. To: V � 1 , Ref. Date 2 3 2025) We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Mary Witters via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Witters at marylwitters@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lars Woodruffe <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:43 PM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1:00'6.01. By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Comm. o _ , — Ref. To: 1 Ref. Date; J111 2 3, 0 5 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and alreadyyielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Lars Woodruffe via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lars Woodruffe at tars woodruffe(a)gmail.com. V / wuftu t .ail I � i� cow. M From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Malinda Anderson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED ,,��% Time 1 2 - 00 d,M , By� Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Malinda Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Malinda Anderson at glowingmoonlitwaves(a)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Janet Andrea <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:28 AM COUNTY OF HANAI' I To: Council Testimony RBCEIVIED 00 Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time I9 e.m . By Date J U L 2_ 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep. -.Cats With. Their Families Support our `ohanc4 9EFOItE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Janet Andrea via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Janet Andrea at ianetlynandrea2524Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Bade <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:52 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 1a:07 ()^ BY _ Date JUL To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Amy Bade via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Bade at 67kihei(a gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Adrienne Baldwin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date JU 2 2 025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Adrienne Baldwin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Adrienne Baldwin at baldwinadrienneCcbgmail com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Lorraine Barrie <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �� �� Time •f'l Hy To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date AL 2 2 9025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lorraine Barrie via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lorraine Barrie at lbarrieC@mac com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paula Beamer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I RECEIVEDBY Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time �� Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Paula Beamer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paula Beamer at paulabeamer(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennifer Ben-dayan <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:33 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Jennifer Ben-dayan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennifer Ben-dayan at Jennie bend ayan gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Aranka Berencsi <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:06 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time (2BV Date JUL 2 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Aranka Berencsi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Aranka Berencsi at berencsiC-live.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tracey Berliner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:32 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 12:00 .h1, By � Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Tracey Berliner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tracey Berliner at doesong(allive.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Wendy Bernier <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:44 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIzrm� Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 0;00 ^ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Wendy Bernier via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Wendy Bernier at wen dybernier(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deborah Biondolillo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:11 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIZy Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 12� d e_ _ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Deborah Biondolillo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deborah Biondolillo at biondolillohawaiiC«bgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Beth Broome <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:25 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 0 BY ae- f- Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Beth Broome via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Beth Broome at killerben1(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cherry Bucholz <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:28 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time (2� BY JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cherry Bucholz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cherry Bucholz at cbucholzC@hawaii rr com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Faith Burkhardt <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time (2 �� .m. BY Date XL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Faith Burkhardt via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Faith Burkhardt at cheffaithb(coyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Cabingas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:53 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAII To: Council Testimony � RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 12ZY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amy Cabingas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Cabingas at cabingasamyCo)gmaill.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Carvalho <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:39 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 12:OOP.. Byd_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karen Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Carvalho at karcatv(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kevin Chatfield <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:27 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ���_ BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kevin Chatfield via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kevin Chatfield at konakevin1 ()gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lei Chock <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lei Chockvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lei Chock at leirightC@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Haven Clayton <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:25 AM COUNTY CLERIC To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date J IJ L 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Flaven Clayton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Flaven Clayton at flavenclayton gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Cleveland <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:34 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date _III! 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Melissa Cleveland via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Cleveland at melissa k cleveland@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Comfort <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 12:00 C^- RECEIVED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025- I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Melissa Comfort via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Comfort at macomfortPatt.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Cornwell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time L2 .M, BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Donna Cornwell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Donna Cornwell at don nases27C5)9mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paul Crepeau <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:57 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ,r► . BY Date JUL 2 2 2425 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Paul Crepeau via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paul Crepeau at sweetchildofthesea0b9mail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Esmeralda Curtis <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:38 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 12 P.M. By — Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island.' This message was sent by Esmeralda Curtis via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Esmeralda Curtis at 3sm3ralda99@)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amber Dalrymple <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:52 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED / Time 11� Da To JUL 2 2 ?015 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: 1 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan_ one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Amber Dalrymple via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amber Dalrymple at missfawnhilLa-gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Degroot <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Y OPPOSED RECEIVED Bill 51 - STRONGLY Time i�� BY Date JUL 2 2 HE - To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Linda Degroot via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Degroot at Linda degrootC@outlook.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heidi Denecke <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �2%� •� • By To Mayor KimJUL 2 2o Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date — I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Heidi Denecke via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heidi Denecke at mauiglobetrotter(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Monica Dey <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:24 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI I I RECEIVED Time �� %� .'�► . BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date J U L 2 2 202ri__- I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Monica Dey via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Monica Dey at turkeybuttmonica(cbgmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rebecca Dill <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI I I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time [gWV,A. By _ Date •1111 2 2 M5 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Rebecca Dill via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rebecca Dill at obbeachbabe22@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karyl Doss <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:58 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED .._ Time 12:00 Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karyl Doss via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karyl Doss at karyldoss hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Grace Doyle <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 12� BY_ Time ,d►1. Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Grace Doyle via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Grace Doyle at bluemoon808(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Laurie Dresser <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ��� By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Laurie Dresser via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Laurie Dresser at lauriesz06(ayahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Meredith Edwards <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:34 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject' Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and alreadyyielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Meredith Edwards via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Meredith Edwards at meredithwaverly(o)hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gloria Y <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:10 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1140P.M, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Gloria Y via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gloria Y at sailing_canu@,yahoo com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Green <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Ji��{I,M, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Lisa Green via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lisa Green at homesbylgCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Greenlaw <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �. 40 M. By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Atameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARTS Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cynthia Greenlaw via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Greenlaw at cynthiagreenlawC@gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Judy Guajardo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I ^RECEIVED Time 12 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Judy Guajardo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Judy Guajardo at iudy'guajardo(8)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Katarina Haas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:50 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time l�%t1JP^ BY Mel Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Katarina Haas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Katarina Haas at bendendbunny hotmail com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Maria Hart <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22; 2025 12:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ^ RECEIVED Time 11 Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Maria Hart via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Maria Hart at hart kristina17(a gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Harvey <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1� Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Melissa Harvey via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Harvey at myoproinstitute(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of M Renee Harwood <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:11 AM COUNTY CLERK Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I To: RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by M Renee Harwood via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to M Renee Harwood at Sarenarenee ftahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patrice Heller <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:05 AM COUNTY CLERK Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I TO: RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time l�%0� BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call.on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Patrice Heller via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patrice Heller at fpatriceh@icloud com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Herr <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Donna Herr via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Donna Herr at hrchoicesC�netzero.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Brittany Higa <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:51 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEI:—de-- Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time l2�_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Brittany Higa via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brittany Higa at lonewolfmama91(cbgmaiLcom. advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Walter Hodges From: <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:35 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I il Testimony Council RECEIVED -. / Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time l� BYSI�YIW---- Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren'tferal monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Walter Hodges via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Walter Hodges at manoa2000Cd)hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Homer < advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:57 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time '�'Co +M • By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Susan Homer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Homer at suesuechef(@yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Honsberger <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:50 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject' Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 12' _ BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Linda Honsberger via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Honsberger at linda honsberger(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Biljana Jovanovic <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:10 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED . _„/ Time BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 wilt: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Biljana Jovanovic via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Biljana Jovanovic at kat-dawgCcbsbcglobaLnet. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bonnie Klein <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:35 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time �� %� , In,BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JULL.2 2 2025 _ I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral. -monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Bonnie Klein via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bonnie Klein at stihlrunning(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tiffany Koch <advocate @mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:33 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �� .M• BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Tiffany Koch via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tiffany Koch at kochtiffany(a)gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nick Krotov <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:26 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Nick Krotov via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nick Krotov at nickskrotoAd)9mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tammi Le <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:46 AM COUNTY CLERK Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tammi Le via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tammi Le at tmiiwah(@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Barbara Leutu <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent• Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:55 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Barbara Leutu via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Barbara Leutu at babytuamafa(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jen Liming <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:55 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time 2` .n, BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jen Liming via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jen Liming at buddhijen gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Debbie Mabuni <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:59 AM To• Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time IZ000,m, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Debbie Mabuni via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Debbie Mabuni at debbiemabuniCa)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennifer Mahone <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED MMRECEIVED Subject: Time I`� BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jennifer Mahone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennifer Mahone at 1�enoceanC@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Mello <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent' Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:45 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Donna Mello via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Donna Mello at muttlee55Ca)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Menton <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:09 AM COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK gAWAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Susan Menton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Menton at konamentonCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Amanda Milliron <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:52 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF gp,WAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 12 BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amanda Milliron via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amanda Milliron at Lovinarlee(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carmen Montano <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time (:`i�Q� BY Date JUL 2 2 20Z5 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Carmen Montano via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carmen Montano at montanocarmen923()yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennie Montano <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED t RECEIVED._(/ , Time l� By�L�— Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Jennie Montano via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennie Montano at montanojennie gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicia Morrier <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:04 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time1JZM_ BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Alicia Morrier via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alicia Morrier at alemorrier@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Brittany Newman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time By T Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51 Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Brittany Newman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brittany Newman at much2boldPhotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Silvina Nussbaum <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:46 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIzide- Date Time 6;00 'ex, JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Silvina Nussbaum via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Silvina Nussbaum at chivi1982(a)icloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marian Orssten <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:09 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED n RECEIVED Time 1rBY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Marian Orssten via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marian Orssten at malpha00C@9mail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michael Pargett <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time t�_ BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Michael Pargett via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michael Pargett at michaelpargette hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of David Pearson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEI:—de— Date Time 12� JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective,, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by David Pearson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David Pearson at dbbjpearsonC@gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jordan Pedersen-fukunaga <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:07 AM COUNTY CLERK Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I To: RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jordan Pedersen-fukunaga via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jordan Pedersen-fukunaga at iordan.fukunaga@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marcie Phares <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time (�%� .th . By Date �UL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Marcie Phares via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marcie Phares at �mail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Pierce <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:29 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ��: BY — J U L 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats. These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51 Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Julie Pierce via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Pierce at julie pierce51 C@outlook.com. From: advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org on behalf of Olivia Pollard <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM COUNTY CLERIC To: Subject• Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RECEIVED HAWAI I Time fa:QQ ^ By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Olivia Pollard via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Olivia Pollard at animalgirl08Ca)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alexa Popejoy <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:53 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date J U L 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area I plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Alexa Popejoy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alexa Popejoy at katieoopejov16 ft-m- l.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cheryl Popke <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11-40O.A. Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area I plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — white protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cheryl Popke via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cheryl Popke at clmentzer@hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Chris Popke <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 12= ^ BY — Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuteana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alanieda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing peopte to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats. These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by beat organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretake!-<-, unciorground Increase dumping of unwanted ;lets Undermine trust and momenti_,m g< ined byyears of volunteer efforts Waste County resources unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffer ink; — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASF; :>OLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, lc 's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha AnimalAllini-r ­,, °,dvocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, J� ire In '.at Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll of:" rh(­;c humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JO!;," THE! MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets unitcci Reduce cat colony size over tin . — n,hiLeprotecting wildlife We can solve this— but not \,\ji? h; Bili 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge yot is this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cl�rs Po:)!, e via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chris Po;;;<c �)t chrisser69 @hotme il.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kathryn Priester <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:26 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time P2�Q.1M . By Date .111L 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kathryn Priester via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kathryn Priester at koriester1958(Bgmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Renee Rabb <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 202S 12:26 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF gAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time �i%� BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the hroken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle: Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL workingtogether to roll out then , humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JC `' TIDE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over tire: - - ,vhile protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not vvi rii Hl 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge yoi.,: rr:iect this bill and stand with us —our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii' This message was sent by Ren(in r,,hhvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Renee Rrihh �;, reneerabb77 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelly Ramsdell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Rill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1�409^. By, Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai`i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Al,�rneda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't,-, I forr I Veterinary care that's out of res;ch Pet -averse rentals, forcing pe,,—)id,� to give up animals TryingTo Feed their pets despite ri�;ing living costs When families surrender pets -- often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "communi',, c its. These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to ' x the hroken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO-PRONGS_D ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're ;_,,ackud by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretak,� s widerground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momenti ,m gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enfo? :irl ; an Unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering— for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA-BASEI SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, lea's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Allia! cn, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Ju: Oat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Vol,,; Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll of ? ,, ;,se humane solutions acrossthe island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JC . , THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overt - �, hile protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not wi Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: :t tl pis bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Yourfellow resident of Hawai jnd This message was sent by K&, via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki -Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly F ;deli nt queenketlyann1 msn.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gianina Restivo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:31 AM COUNTY CLERK To: C-nuncil Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Pill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED JyRECEIVED Time la,•00 Q.IM • -JUL T2 By Date 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and th(, Hawai`i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community,,, I<uleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding wor,'t ;olve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make tho ri vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes care6:,,,ers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to l)rc)tect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor A[nmeda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategir? . THE REALITY ON THE GROUT-. Families across our island f i. : Spay/neuter costs they can't ,ii r�rd Veterinary care that's out of i h Pet -averse rentals, forcing pir) ,l., to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets desi � I ; ising living costs When families surrender pet:; often durnped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "commw its." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need tr; the brol<en system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO-PROr1 h,A,CTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local ut-Vanizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only poet:k,tion-control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause — not just symptoms. They're back�:� 1 i_)y data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate carets' , .!nderground Increase dumping of unwar,t >, Is Undermine trust and momw- ;;wined by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources et f yin ; an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more su -- for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FORALOHA-BA:'' )LUTIONS Rather than criminalize care:. _;. > ,iplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal AIIi Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, V Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll se humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND " , l--IE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonmc Keep families and pets uni Reduce cat colony size ovif - awhile, protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not I l itl 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge yc , -t this hill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hn� 1;1(1. This message was sent by C Restivo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Git;r�I ;tivo 3t; ianinar gmail.com. 01 From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Richardson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:31 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time j2: w a^ . By Date JUL 2 22 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jessica Richardson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Richardson at kadnanava2218(@gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alice Rietveld <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:54 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time 1240 a", By� Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bitl 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Alice Rietveld via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alice Rietveld at alicerietveld(oPmac.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deirdre Roney <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:37 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I ,�l�/� RECEIVED Time 19 v�J p.M. By Date— JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Deirdre Roney via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deirdre Roney at abitofearth7Ccbgmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Luma Rose <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ///���III��� ^RECEIVED � Time 1� By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Luma Rose via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Luma Rose at luum yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ilona Rosson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:33 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1I BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Ilona Rosson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ilona Rosson at iLonagrace(@mac.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kimberlee Sang <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:50 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 1%40p , syRECEIVEe_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i., Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kimberlee Sang via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kimberlee Sang at kimisang86 hotmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Larry Santos <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:38 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED ,�% Time ��.O�Q.it. BY CTFI _ Date JUL 2 22 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Larry Santos via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Larry Santos at pdtheclownPgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deena Schlitzkus <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:47 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1�400.0, By� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Deena Schlitzkus via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deena Schlitzkus at schlitzkusdeena11(@gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jenny Shimabukuro <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:43 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time��T_ Bl' Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jenny Shimabukuro via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jenny Shimabukuro at jenny(a kulaglass com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Elizabeth Shipley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I'MO P.M - BX To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Elizabeth Shipley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elizabeth Shipley at tosweetcheeksPhotmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Victoria Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �M, BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Victoria Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Victoria Smith at queenvictoria02Ca)sbcglobal net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Salina Smith-rabe <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ( By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Salina Smith-rabe via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Salina Smith-rabe at lovingitandlivingit1 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patty Staal <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time 19%00•A. By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION — AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Patty Staal via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patty Staal at sty_ akerips5o@gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shannon Stephenson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:56 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time? BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Shannon Stephenson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shannon Stephenson at tidaonfb(cbgmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jim Steward <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jim Steward via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jim Steward at protectallcatshawaii(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cindy Stewart <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �,�' Time titer (� . By. Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Cindy Stewart via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cindy Stewart at c:indystew1222C@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Russell Stone <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:47 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time (2:60.A, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Russell Stone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Russell Stone at russell(o)simplygreenplumbing.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Elizabeth Swan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED d,�,/ Time �2 0, �'►1. By L_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Elizabeth Swan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elizabeth Swan at swan5594Cdbaol.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Desiree Tadio <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED n RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Desiree Tadio via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Desiree Tadio at dez tadi yahoo com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amandatavarez6k@gmail.com Shanaman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:28 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Amandatavarez6k@gmail.com Shanaman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amandatavarez6k@gmail.com Shanaman at From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Halia Tavarez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:27 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I RECEIVED Time By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Halia Tavarez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Halia Tavarez at amandatavarez6k(cbgmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dennis Taylor <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:46 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY ECEIVED AI , I 12 Time :Qo p.M,_ By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Dennis Taylor via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dennis Taylor at dennis taylor@verizon.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Totty <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:20 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK OF COUNTYRECEIVED AI, I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Z&L_ Time IMO.M. To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cynthia Totty via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Totty at c-totty3(a@9mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robert Van Calcar <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:47 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I ✓1 RECEIVED Time 0:00 Q,M . Bye_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Robert Van Calcar via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robert Van Calcar at rvcalcaragmail com_. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mele Vulangi <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:29 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �„ / Time19MR.M_ BY�_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable taw Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Mete Vulangi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mete Vulangi at persmvC«)aol com. Bill #51 COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HANAV I RECEIVED Time : y4 P.M OY Date JUL 2 2 2025 Testimony from K.T. Cannon -Eger of Hilo, Hawaii Tuesday, July 8, 2025 At first glance, feeding abandoned cats appears to be a compassionate act. Upon a closer look over the course of several years, I find the act of feeding abandoned cats in Lili' uokalani Gardens costly, dangerous and insensitive. My name is K.T. Cannon -Eger. I have resided in Hawai' i for 50 years. I now live in Hilo and am a park user who frequently volunteers. I am offering this testimony as a Hilo citizen, not on behalf of any group. I have two rescue cats in my home: one was dumped at the end of my driveway 11 years ago and one was adopted from the Kea ' au Animal Shelter 10 years ago. They are neutered and chipped males who are current on all their vet visits. I am not anti -cat. I am anti irresponsible behavior that costs our County and endangers both residents and wildlife. People currently putting food out for abandoned cats do not stick around to observe the cats. They leave multiple plastic containers scattered throughout the park, littering daily. The food attracts fire ants, mongoose, and endangered nene. Cats are the only carriers of toxoplasmosis, known to have killed nene in the park and also known to be a cause of death to endangered turtles and monk seals. In humans, toxoplasmosis poses a health risk especially to pregnant women. Cats scratch on wood, a common stretching exercise. When done on the walls of the tea house, such scratching leads to expensive repairs. When done on the trunks of trees, damage is done to botanical assets. I support this bill. Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony, K.T. Cannon -Eger Bill #51 Testimony from K.T. Cannon -Eger of Hilo, Hawaii Tuesday, July 22, 2025 for the hearing before the Hawai' i County Council on Wednesday, July 23 in Kona Thank you for this opportunity to provide further testimony on Bill 51. 1 am including several photographs to illustrate my remarks of July 8 and today. typical feeding stations in 2017 — extruded foam plates have been banned from use in County parks. Feeding station 2024 — plastic dishes are left behind daily. Littering is a $100 fine per occasion. Has that ever been applied to this situation? In addition to attracting abandoned cats to the food dishes, mongoose, mynah birds, nene, fire ants, loose dogs, and other critters are attracted to the food. Cat scratch damage to the tea house Cat scratch damage to trees in the park Feeding abandoned animals on County property is not a compassionate act. The damage to a critical habitat is too grave to allow this to continue. Thank you, K.T. Cannon -Eger Hilo, HI From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicia Wills <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:31 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAi ' i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time- By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Alicia Wills via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alicia Wills at alicia(Ebpalmvalleyfarm.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sharonrose Windish <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:40 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I t RECEIVED,,,W Time IM ,M, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sharonrose Windish via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sharonrose Windish at srwindish(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lori Waller <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:48 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time [:00 d►1, By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs — the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lori Waller via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lori Waller at wallerlori7Oa)gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Craig Whitaker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RAWAI'I RECEIVED Time 2'(� .fit I. Byry _ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Craig Whitaker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Craig Whitaker at mkeeccrai9(a)9mail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Whitaker <advocate@mail.action button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:05 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RECEIVED 0,00 HAWAI � I , Time .M, By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bitl 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karen Whitaker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Whitaker at valentinemissy@gmail com. P/Council ��ll gl COUNCIL PUBLIC TESTIMONY REGARDING: BILL 51, Draft 3 / COMM. 283.288 COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time (2: 00 m- Ry Dar>at IC, n 5 7025 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 4, ARTICLE 3, OF THE HA'WAPI COUNTY CODE 1983 (2016 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO ANIMALS. Provided herein is a list of 1,189 individuals who have submitted testimony in OPPOSITION to Bill 51, Draft 3 (COMM. 283.288). Each submission reflects identical language, and a representative sample is included below for reference. To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: We, the undersigned, call upon you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take meaningful action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. Bill 51 Gets It Wrong Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it. Starving cats doesn't make them vanish. It drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease spread, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers rather than addressing root causes —and makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 overlooks both the underlying causes and the real, data -backed solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct and join us in supporting strategies that are humane, effective, and already working. The Reality on the Ground Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they cannot afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse housing, forcing families to give up animals Rising living costs, making it harder to feed their pets When families surrender animals —often left at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — the result is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters. They're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and our system is failing them. Our Solution: Two -Pronged Action We urge you to support a plan led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already driving change. Prong One: Keep Cats with Their Families Prevent surrender before it happens: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Accessible veterinary and wellness clinics Rental protections for pet owners Emergency pet food assistance Prong Two: Responsibly Manage Community Cat Populations Implement proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce cat colonies: TNVR (Trap —Neuter —Vaccinate —Return —Manage) programs Adoption pipelines for socialized cats Certified colony caretakers equipped with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Conservation -focused management training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Foster and sanctuary networks for rehoming These methods address root causes, not just symptoms. They're backed by research, used nationwide, and already yielding success here at home. Why Bill 51 Will Backfire If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase pet dumping Erode trust and progress built over years of volunteer work Waste County resources on unenforceable policies Ultimately cause more suffering —for cats, native wildlife, and our community We Stand for Aloha -Based Solutions Let's honor —not criminalize —the work already underway by: AdvoCATS, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, Aloha Animal Alliance, Aloha Animal Oasis, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki — Care For Our Cat 'Ghana, KARES Hawaii, Petfix Hawaii, Pueo Dog Sanctuary, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others. These groups are working collaboratively to roll out humane solutions across our island. Sign the Petition — and Join the Movement Together, we can: End the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce colony sizes over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this —but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: Reject this bill and stand with us —our 'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha. REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 1 Mutiara Tan 43 Gregory Williams 2 Marie Greene 44 Patricia Ellis 3 Carol Fox 45 Joshua Wright 4 Tiffany Boone 46 Deanna Briggs 5 Rachel Hall 47 Christopher Harrison 6 Francisco Smith 48 Stephanie Brennan 7 Crystal Baker 49 James Lee 8 Chase Collier 50 Donald Donaldson 9 Jonathan Rodriguez 51 Cindy Henderson 10 Robert Kelly 52 Connie Sanchez 11 Molly Cooper 53 Angela Sexton 12 Matthew Roman 54 John Cortez 13 Richard Costa 55 Thomas Grant 14 Steven Wiley 56 David Pearson 15 Ebony Robinson 57 Louis Wright 16 Peter Wood 58 Marcus Thomas 17 Alisha Anderson 59 James Chandler 18 Michael Quinn 60 Rebecca Wilson 19 Omar Andrews 61 Jillian Rodriguez 20 Brittney Ramirez 62 Joseph Taylor 21 Laura Sherman 63 John Choi 22 Jeffery Morris 64 John Anderson 23 Charles Robles 65 Debbie Spence 24 Amber Adams 66 Henry Cunningham 25 Nicholas Gonzalez 67 Benjamin Calderon 26 Kelly Thompson 68 Eric David 27 Linda Kim 69 Whitney rowe 28 Michael Hicks 70 John Perry 29 Brandon Bray 71 Ian Cook 30 Crystal Davis 72 Alexandra Cook 31 Connie Fuentes 73 Heidi Harvey 32 Danny Pitts 74 Thomas Huffman 33 April Ibarra 75 Richard Alien 34 Brandon Bush 76 Donna Hernandez 35 Katelyn Brooks 77 Colleen Boyd 36 Mark Kim 78 Samuel Mitchell 37 Brandon Dodson 79 Kathleen Smith 38 Erin Jones 80 Richard Harvey 39 Gregory Phillips 81 Phillip Bailey 40 Crystal Scott 82 Brenda Carr 41 Michele Dominguez 83 Brandon Ford 42 Laura McKnight 84 Jennifer Oliver REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 85 Valerie Medina 124 Cynthia Holmes 86 James Nelson 125 Mike McMillan 87 Bryan May 126 Teresa Wang 88 Tara Rasmussen 127 Brian Sexton 89 Allison Perry 128 Shelia Gray 90 Christopher Jackson 129 Travis Wallace 91 Jacqueline Ray 130 Steven Jones 92 Michael Burns 131 Thomas Love 93 Maria Rodriguez 132 Elizabeth Carter 94 Richard Hernandez 133 James Jackson 95 Marie Tran 134 Christopher Gould 96 Cassandra Villa 135 Donald Vasquez 97 Rachel Rodriguez 136 Roy Fernandez 98 Samantha Wyatt 137 Jason Morgan 99 Kevin Baker 138 John Hart 100 Jonathan Barnes 139 Robin Brooks 101 Nichole Greer 140 Robert Nguyen 102 Darren Dillon 141 Scott Archer 103 Justin Welch 142 Travis Payne 104 Lisa Gallegos 143 Jesus Burke 105 Daniel Williams 144 Elizabeth Thompson 106 Sydney Anderson 145 Amy Klein 107 Angela Johnson 146 Rachael Pitts 108 Ryan McCoy 147 Evelyn Rojas 109 Michelle Barrett 148 Joshua Osborn 110 Jason Glass 149 Christine Martin 111 Kevin Brock 150 Melissa Santiago 112 Patricia Jackson 151 Brandon Stewart 113 Alexander Sawyer 152 Crystal Soto 114 Joann Nichols 153 Jessica Watkins 115 Cody O'Connell 154 Ijohn Howard 116 Kelsey Patterson 155 Ijohn Campbell 117 Laura Chase 156 Lindsey Watson 118 Briana Hansen 157 Kristen Johnson 119 Andrew Salas 158 Dennis Greene 120 Destiny Gibson 159 Katherine White 121 Kenneth Jackson 160 Daniel Barnes 122 Jason Simmons 161 Deborah Chavez 123 Frank Knight 162 Misty Gill REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 163 Brandon Stewart 204 Mark White 164 Jesse Foster 205 Robert Hall 165 Ryan Foster 206 Victor Velez 166 Janice Bryant 207 Amanda Odom 167 Joseph Whitney 208 Shannon Clark 168 Alexandra Dean 209 Bryan Ayala 169 Anthony Davis 210 Deanna McCormick 170 Jonathan Molina 211 Phillip Cameron 171 Brandy Martinez 212 Susan Cook 172 Shawn Maldonado 213 William Sanchez 173 John Conner 214 Grace Williams 174 April Peterson 215 Ann Smith 175 Samuel Holland 216 Mark Cox 176 Ashley Stevens 217 Nicole Weeks 177 Anthony Smith 218 Alejandra Weiss 178 Danny Johnson 219 Greg Young 179 Alexander Strickland 220 Sara Morrison 180 Joshua Norris 221 David Parks 181 Felicia Andrews 222 Kimberly McLaughlin 182 Matthew Thompson 223 Kenneth Rodriguez 183 Marie Morris 224 Suzanne Lee 184 Amanda Munoz 225 Craig Collins 185 Katrina Smith 226 Stephanie Simpson 186 Amy Foster 227 Angela Williams 187 Deborah Franklin 228 Luis Lopez 188 Teresa Smith 229 Jeffrey Valdez 189 Katrina Harrell 230 Phyllis Moore 190 Tony Holland 231 Sharon Ferguson 191 Bradley Weaver 232 Timothy Young 192 Rose Rice 233 Ryan Jenkins 193 Barbara Fod 234 Ashley Joseph 194 Stacy Padilla 235 Shannon Lambert 195 Robin Jenkins 236 Tim Richardson 196 Megan Hill 237 Jacqueline Rich 197 Emma Green 238 Kenneth Gay 198 Michael Brooks 239 Patricial Tucker 199 Elizabeth Knapp 240 Charles Nielsen 200 Krystal Rodriguez 241 Jeffrey Brown 201 Rebecca Henry 242 Juan Williams 202 Willie Perkins 243 Mark Blackwell 203 Jason Pitts 244 Kyle Buck REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# I Name 245 Angel Sutton 286 lJoseph Lopez 246 Morgan Fisher 287 1 Hector Harper 247 Colleen Lewis 288 jLisa Quinn 248 Carla Lee 289 jAlexander Carroll 249 Harry Mason 290 Christian Montes 250 Timothy Jackson 291 Anthony Shepard 251 Wendy Lewis 292 Linda Baker 252 Cheryl Hernandez 293 Mark Ferguson 253 Dana Grant 294 Andre Frazier 254 Kristina Murillo 295 Shane Hamilton 255 Deborah Acosta 296 Christy Jensen 256 Kyle James 297 Elizabeth Gonzalez 257 Marie Carlson 298 Cathy Lee 258 John Harper 299 Ann Palmer 259 Kyle Pace 300 Hector Martin 260 Denise Johnson 301 Kimberly Lewis 261 Katherine Miller 302 Margaret Zuniga 262 Tony Miller 303 Jill Smith 263 Dale Caldwell 304 Holly Brown 264 Kevin Caldwell 305 Lisa Jefferson 265 Wesley Braun 306 Kimberly Bright 266 Jonathan Hill 307 Michael Clark 267 Daniel Harrison 308 Megan Ali 268 Jason Fernandez 309 Raymond Stone 269 Martha Johnson 310 Patricia Towsend 270 Sandra Contreras 311 Anthony Martinez 271 Alicia Barber 312 Susan Bright 272 Jasmine Rodriguez 313 ICarolyn Martinez 273 Rebecca Hernandez 314 Erica Rodriguez 274 Nicole Gordon 315 Patrick Jackson 275 Marie Perez 316 Daniel Wilson 276 Bradley Lee 317 Luis Wilson 277 William Hayes 318 Imelvin Turner 278 Michael Ramirez 319 IDiana Hernandez 279 Christy Jackson 320 Larry Simmons 280 Amber Martinez 321 Sarah Jones 281 Gloria Williams 322 Jeremy Kent 282 Katie Peters 323 David Miller 283 Katherine Jacobs 324 liesus McPherson 284 IThomas Anderson 325 IMichael Donaldson 285 1 Leslie Johnson 326 1 Heather Gonzales REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 245 Susan Franco 286 Mary Rivas 246 Jay Miller 287 Deborah Griffin 247 Gerald Ryan 288 Justin Dennis 248 Ryan Hughes 289 John Chaney 249 Karen Mendoza 290 Cesar Wright 250 Samantha Meadows 291 Kimberly Calderon 251 Angela Bennett 292 Samantha Hicks 252 Linda Francis 293 Rebecca Hendricks 253 Ethan Ballard 294 Jennifer Thomas 254 Danny Lee 295 Karen Jensen 255 Brian Fowler 296 Robert Herring 256 Alicia Smith 297 Stephanie Lee 257 Justin Wood 298 Ashley Huerta 258 Eric Daugherty 299 Alyssa Beard 259 Latoya Rivera 300 Nicole Mendoza 260 Elizabeth Freeman 301 Katelyn Johnson 261 Elizabeth Ross 302 Darrell Johnston 262 Shawn Hayden 303 Julie Bush 263 Christopher Foley 304 Chelsea Gomez 264 Jason Wilcox 305 Laura Cantrell 265 Jason Wilson 306 James Chavez 266 Michael Harrison 307 Joshua Wagner 267 Denise Thomas 308 Darius Woods 268 Ronald Richards 309 Kimberly Solis 269 Laura Lopez 310 Jason Hernandez 270 James Prince 311 Wendy Barrett 271 Nicole Moran 312 Amber Gentry 272 Edward Garrett 313 Charles Singh 273 April Williams 314 Madeline Moore 274 Bradley Roberts 315 Jeffrey Wilson 275 Bradley Kim 316 Tommy Santana 276 Stephanie McCormick 317 Sheri Hendrix 277 Jacob Gonzalez 318 Melissa Anderson 278 Dennis Lee 319 Erin Mason 279 Patrick Stevens 320 Rodney McPherson 280 Cory Gray 321 Erin Henderson 281 Christopher Sanchez 322 Lindsay Liu 282 Tracy Bullock 323 Kerri Jordan 283 Elizabeth Harris 324 Joshua Morris 284 Randy Gonzalez 325 Audrey Eaton 285 ISean Santos 326 David Castillo REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 327 Joshua Hernandez 368 Kristi Mann 328 Jared Brewer 369 John Rosales 329 Ashlee Bradley 370 Crystal Lutz 330 Emily Flores 371 David Stone 331 Susan Taylor 372 Michael Hanson 332 Diane Barton 373 John Boyer 333 Sarah Spencer 374 Sean Medina 334 Sean Monroe 375 Amanda Warren 335 Gregory Pineda 376 Marissa Miller 336 James Barker 377 Ernest Smith 337 Brian McDonald 378 Beth Webb 338 Andrea Farley 379 Mitchell Campbell 339 Amanda Gonzales 380 Benjamin Reid 340 Ashley Christian 381 Henry Gill 341 Bryan Randolph 382 Alexandria Kent 342 Rebecca Ballard 383 Bryan White 343 Anna McDonald 384 Rebecca Schmitt 344 Francis Padilla 385 Danny Crosby 345 William Gilbert 386 Melissa Brooks 346 Alyssa Young 387 Catherine Gordon 347 Brooke Clark 388 Emily Taylor 348 Christopher Brown 389 Christina Davis 349 James Tran 390 Alejandro Robbins 350 Amanda Young 391 Krystal Stephens 351 Suzanne Garcia 392 John Santiago 352 Victor Garcia 393 David Hood 353 Jillian Walters 394 Roger Ross 354 Stephanie Wallace 395 Brenda McPherson 355 Stephanie Reed 396 Holly Rodriguez 356 Amanda Jimenez 397 Vanessa Arias 357 Tanya Williams 398 Robert Gonzalez 358 Daniel Morales 399 Mark Crane 359 Jennifer Webb 400 James Becker 360 Erica Anderson 401 Melissa Gutierrez 361 Sydney Smith 402 Logan Reyes 362 Robert Day 403 Benjamin Fitzpatrick 363 Veronica Ramirez 404 Norma Gonzalez 364 Alvin Taylor 405 Kayla Sanchez 365 Wayne Byrd 406 Tonya Hayes 366 Justin Singh 407 Nicole Becker 367 Megan Bowers 408 Erin Hendricks REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 409 Jason Burton 450 Todd Camacho 410 Gloria Johnson 451 Robert Conner 411 Jeffrey Lewis 452 Brandon MacDonald 412 Amanda Peters 453 Joshua Pollard 413 Lisa Buck 454 Charles Andersen 414 Amber Moore 455 Sean Brennan 415 Andrew Taylor 456 William Farley 416 Amanda Dodson 457 Veronica Fitzpatrick 417 Barbara Thomas 458 Andrea Willis 418 Kelly Anderson 459 Christopher Nelson 419 Ryan Carter 460 Christopher Walker 420 Stephanie Murray 461 Austin Dennis 421 Jasmine Johnson 462 Jerry O'Brien 422 Stacey Jackson 463 Jamie Bond 423 Amanda Roberts 464 Jimmy Owens 424 Stephanie Gordon 465 Jon Gomez 425 Kathleen Campbell 466 Dustin Ramos 426 Darrell Patterson 467 Jeanette Parker 427 Sarah Martinez 468 Haley Martinez 428 Brandy Davidson 469 Nicholas Bell 429 Phillip Schneider 470 Carl Kane 430 Victoria Moore 471 Rachael Porter 431 Kenneth Moody 472 Justin Brady 432 Matthew Hanson 473 Kelly Christensen 433 Deborah Parks 474 David Barajas 434 Joseph Jimenez 475 Christopher Bond 435 Alicia Simpson 476 Traci O'Donnell 436 Hunter Cannon 477 Matthew Underwood 437 Carmen Chandler 478 Luis Cardenas 438 Russell Jones 479 Kimberly Shields 439 Henry Jordan 480 Grant Roberts 440 Bryan Clark 481 Michael Phillips 441 Dorothy Frzier 482 Helen Sampson 442 Elizabeth Oliver 483 Timothy burns 443 Patrick Ramirez 484 Barbara Shepherd 444 Justin Torres 485 William Hooper 445 Andrew Hall 486 Ashley Hill 446 James Ortiz 487 jApril Anderson 447 Matthew Choi 488 Theresa Scott 448 Nathan Sims 489 Brandon Dickerson 449 David Carr 490 Brian Guerrero REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 491 Ashley Reilly 532 Katie Wells 492 Tyrone Stokes 533 Michael Gibson 493 Shari Leblanc 534 Laura Bailey 494 William Miller 535 Chase Mitchell 495 Elizabeth Robinson 536 Sarah Kelley 496 Traci Graham 537 Lisa Jackson 497 Jenny Wilson 538 Kimberly Powers 498 Matthew Johsnon 539 Tina Bowen 499 Wendy Singh 540 Vanessa Short 500 David Hines 541 Benjamin York 501 Lorraine Bowen 542 John Moore 502 Justin Tran 543 John Harmon 503 Theresa Villanueva 544 Charles Matinez 504 John Stewart 545 1 Dawn Jensen 505 Thomas Alexander 546 Steven Stark 506 Alison O'Brien 547 Keith Wilson 507 Sheena Peterson 548 Leslie Webster 508 Lisa Herrera 549 Kristie Schmitt 509 Andrew Crawfod 550 Thomas Vargas 510 Tonya Beck 551 Savannah Bradley 511 John Butler 552 Alejandra Thomas 512 Christian Myers 553 Justin Nunez 513 Kelsey Reynolds 554 James Scott 514 Adam Anderson 555 Manuel Monroe 515 Christopher Hayes 556 Matthew Adams 516 Kevin Preston 557 IScott Castaneda 517 Richard Marshall 558 Gary Jones 518 Kristin Estrada 559 Joy Gonzales 519 Sarah Holt 560 Amanda Espinoza 520 Jose Pennington 561 Matthew King 521 Larry Clayton 562 Ronald Cowan 522 Charles Garcia 563 Shawn Macias 523 Darren Gates 564 Joseph Jones 524 Francisco Cook 565 Julie Schmidt 525 Hannah Davidson 566 Angelica Nguyen 526 John Glass 567 Christopher Porter 527 Reginald Mejia 568 Victoria Salas 528 Jose Benjamin 569 jErin Reynolds 529 Jamie Newton 570 1 Keith Daniels 530 Lisa Sanchez 571 ISandy Davis 531 1paige Greene 572 lWayne Manning REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 573 Teresa Watkins 614 Jason Greene 574 Jonthan Craig 615 Kenneth Butler 575 Willie Solis 616 Vickie McCarthy 576 Anna Duke 617 Michael Douglas 577 Tammy Newman 618 Jeanne Zhang 578 Matthew Reed 619 Anthony Morrow 579 Terrance Richardson 620 Dana Johnson 580 Patrick Matthews 621 Katie Small 581 Angela Lynch 622 Kayla Garza 582 Amber Miller 623 William Dawson 583 Sarah Brown 624 Jennifer Phelps 584 Eddie Rice 625 Steven Farmer 585 Andrew Moore 626 Danielle Barrera 586 Gary Jacobson 627 Patricia Clark 587 Christina Black 628 Curis Gray 588 Mary Davis 629 Andrew Walters 589 Ralph Ayers 630 Kenneth Garcia 590 Jessica Cole 631 Bernard Diaz 591 Brian Torres 632 James Riley 592 Vincent Coleman 633 David Andrade 593 Anna Whitehead 634 Christine Aguilar 594 1 Nicole Rose 635 Craig McCarty 595 Cynthia Bradford 636 Derek Johnson 596 Bryan Flores 637 William Garcia 597 Ronald Hopkins 638 Charles Jacobs 598 April Vargas 639 Micahel Pittman 599 Traci Hall 640 Eric Cox 600 Tanya Castillo 641 Margaret Gardner 601 Lindsey glenn 642 Tammy Alvarez 602 Bryan Serrano 643 Brianna Smith 603 Summer Sherman 644 Jamie Lane 604 Dominique Morrison 645 Elijah Garcia 605 Matthew Parks 646 Richard Brown 606 Sean Stewart 647 Carrie Cooper 607 Brady McCoy 648 Annette Diaz 608 Crystal Washinton 649 Brian Padilla 609 Williams Robbins 650 Donald Farmer 610 Douglas Wilkins 651 Cameron Roberts 611 Derrick Holt 652 John Thompson 612 Wayne Macias 653 Tyler Gonzales 613 Rebecca Hill 654 Edward Wagner REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# I Name 655 Cristina Johnson 696 Jordan Young 656 Joseph Frederick 697 Judy Mejia 657 Rachel Young 698 Daniel Alvarez 658 Heather Hensley 699 Jeffrey Mendoza 659 Renee Williams 700 lChristina Morgan 660 Kristen Melton 701 John Thomas 661 Sandra Spencer 702 Amanda Noble 662 Lindsey Gordon 703 Joann Deleon 663 Katelyn Martinez 704 Theresa Weber 664 Matthew Greene 705 Jeffrey Turner 665 Laurie Palmer 706 Richard Harper 666 Tyler Murillo 707 Nathan Smith 667 Brianna Aguirre 708 Edwin O'Connor 668 Angela Moran 709 Cindy Jonson 669 Dorothy McLean 710 Kelli Johnson 670 Jessica Stewart 711 Troy Aguilar 671 Aaron Young 712 Antonio Gibbs 672 Fernando Wright 713 Shannon Sullivan 673 Roger Greer 714 Elizabeth O'Neal 674 Eric Ryan 715 Patrick Evans 675 Tiffany Ray 716 Michael McCall 676 Shane Barnes 717 Elizabeth Nolan 677 Monica Allen 718 Vanessa Campbell 678 Larry Savage 719 James Gonzalez 679 Daniel Gilbert 720 Barbara Mills 680 Megan Stone 721 Sarah Gonzalez 681 Jasmine Johnston 722 John Baldwin 682 Jeffrey Lopez 723 Dustin Williams 683 Timothy Howard 724 Malik Morgan 684 James Hamilton 725 Aaron Vaughn 685 Charles McCoy 726 Charles Ramirez 686 Ralph Foster 727 Joshua Taylor 687 Jodi Diaz 728 IMichael Henry 688 Mark Booker 729 Ashley Davis 689 Lisa Dunn 730 Jaqueline Jones 690 Joe Welch 731 Fred Wise 691 Justin Gomez 732 James Little 692 Michael Solis 733 liames Fuentes 693 Danielle Graves 734 Bryan Wilcox 694 James Bautista 735 Sergio Chapman 695 Jennifer Lawson 736 Christian Wilson REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 737 Jessica Lyons 778 Daniel Bentley 738 Laura Jones 779 Samuel Morton 739 Shawna Sweeney 780 Wendy Miller 740 Sandra Yoder 781 Victor kKim 741 Justin Ingram 782 Angela Phillips 742 Terri Jimenez 783 Todd Cook 743 Steven Simmons 784 Susan Elliott 744 Ernest McCormick 785 Gregory Sandoval 745 Ronald Chandler 786 Angelica Matthews 746 Jesse Reese 787 Joe Smith 747 Thomas Lewis 788 Alison McKenzie 748 Kimberly Crane 789 Danielle Gentry 749 Cathy Vega 790 Mark McDowell 750 Brian Reed 791 Matthew Brown 751 Dave Martin 792 Margaret Hernandez 752 Lauren Duncan 793 Jenna Sanchez 753 Jason Cochran 794 Michael Phelps 754 Amy Chavez 795 Gina Ellis 755 Deborah Graham 796 Joshua Davies 756 Megan Koch 797 Cheyenne Rogers 757 Janet Perez 798 Ricky Taylor 758 Christina Sherman 799 Christopher Young 759 Alicia Lewis 800 John Ruiz 760 Benjamin Lee 801 Erin Rodriguez 761 Theodore Nicholson 802 Edward Graham 762 Jeremy Lane 803 Antonio Blake 763 Robert Harris 804 Maria Reid 764 Frances Edwards 805 Thomas Watson 765 IRaymond Riley 806 Hailey Campbell 766 Kaitlyn Bradford 807 Alexander Smith 767 Erin Erickson 808 Jerry Trujillo 768 Allison Allen 809 Julian Lucas 769 Thomas Patrick 810 Joshua Mills 770 James Holmes 811 Linda Martinez 771 Andrew Clark 812 Richard Molina 772 Tyler Compton 813 Alexander Hardin 773 Christine Garcia 814 Kevin Ramsey 774 Roberto Hansen 815 Brandon Hensley 775 Katherine Jones 816 Rhonda Munoz 776 Yolanda Manning 817 Edward Jenkins 777 1 Mark Gibson 818 Kristen Riley REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 819 Melinda White 860 Philip Griffin 820 Jason Dixon 861 Bryan Lopez 821 Danny Lowery 862 Stephanie Stevens 822 Erin Morse 863 1 Kimberly Martinez 823 McKenzie Butler 864 Steven Nguyen 824 Austin Miller 865 Russell Morris 825 Mary Henry 866 Amy Burgess 826 Andrew Hamilton 867 Hannah Richards 827 Alicia Brewer 868 Christopher McConnell 828 Donald Orozco 869 Jacob Riley 829 Michele Marshall 870 Nathan Harris 830 Angela Berger 871 Denise Barnes 831 Karen Vasquez 872 Linda Juarez 832 Jerome Alvarez 873 Micheal Frye 833 Katelyn Hernandez 874 Mallory Goodwin 834 Christine Gallagher 875 Virginia Rogers 835 Lance Mitchell 876 Julie Ball 836 James Clayton 877 Catherine Decker 837 David Terry 878 Dana Wright 838 Sarah Herman 879 Tracey Rodgers 839 Jacqueline Miller 880 Brian Ortega 840 Alexis Gomez 881 Courtney Ramsey 841 Bryce Duran 882 Jon Schneider 842 Matthew Foster 883 Benjamin Sullivan 843 Jeremiah Russell 884 Ronald Rodriguez 844 Shirley Martin 885 Amanda Lopez 845 Joe Kim 886 Lori O'Connor 846 Tracy Hoffman 887 Patrick Duncan 847 Christine Golden 888 William Sullivan 848 Adrian Thomas 889 Sherry Lewis 849 Kristen Hughes 890 Jennifer Davis 850 James Simmons 891 Lindsay Simmons 851 Adrian Shae 892 Robert Church 852 Christina Godlen 893 Karen Richard 853 Kelly Lutz 894 Shannon Levy 854 Sean Ritter 895 Patricia Green 855 Kathleen Peterson 896 Melinda Beck 856 Kyle Bryant 897 Hannah Haas 857 Jennifer Booth 898 Hayden Avila 858 Sarah Cooper 899 Peter Ortiz 859 Gregory Skinner 900 Charles Lee REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 901 Manuel Glenn 942 Tiffany Stevens 902 Andrew Carpenter 943 Vanessa Blake 903 Jared Stewart 944 Teresa Weaver 904 Michelle Rivera 945 William Chaney 905 Rachel Ibarra 946 Susan Thompson 906 Daniel Bailey 947 Reginald Bright 907 lRuth Mason 948 Brandon Rowe 908 James Dela Cruz 949 Rebecca Thomas 909 Cory O'Neal 950 Erik Long 910 Matthew Weber 951 Christian Garcia 911 Valerie Harrington 952 Kelly Nunez 912 Michelle Anderson 953 Keith Chen 913 Cathy Galvan 954 Allison Hill 914 . Renee Green 955 Nancy Melton 915 Ethan Lloyd 956 Jennifer Colon 916 Felicia Diaz 957 Katrina Ellis 917 Kristen Galloway 958 Holly Bowen 918 Stephen Gutierrez 959 Morgan Adkins 919 Kara Anderson 960 Rebecca MacDonald 920 Cheryl Tate 961 Anne Aguilar 921 Brandon Greene 962 Skyler Chong 922 Eric Everett 963 April Francis 923 Dennis Rodriguez 964 Dana Fisher 924 Deanna Jones 965 Christine Gonzalez 925 Diana Huffman 966 Ashley Frey 926 Sara White 967 David O'Donnell 927 Tamara Jackson 968 Sandra Holloway 928 William Simpson 969 Lauren Hardy 929 Christy Wagner 970 Janet McDaniel 930 Joyce Martin 971 Ralph Johnson 931 Taylor Lewis 972 i Melissa Alvarado 932 Leonard Sampson 973 Anthony Wall 933 Carrie Acosta 974 Don Smith 934 Ashley Ray 975 Terri Baily 935 Spencer dunn 976 Kimberly Quinn 936 Brenda Franklin 977 John Steele 937 Matthew Coffey 978 Daniel Brewer 938 Danielle Browning 979 Vanessa Anderson 939 Terri Lee 980 Robyn Woods 940 Tammy Barry 981 ISarah Rose 941 ICatherine Brown 982 1 Mark Malone REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 983 Ryan Palmer 1024 Patricial Daniel 984 Sonya Morales 1025 Kimberly Davila 985 Leonard Gonzales 1026 Amy Graham 986 Rick Reid 1027 Darren Tran 987 Virginia Bryant 1028 Gregory Mendez 988 Adam Decker 1029 Kristin Rhodes 989 Arthur Sawyer 1030 Meagan Stewart 990 Aaron Woods 1031 Carl Rhodes 991 Olivia Jones 1032 Jessica Pennington 992 Crystal Price 1033 Heather Hamilton 993 James Hernandez 1034 jAnna Hernandez 994 Laura Martin 1035 John McCullough 995 Nathan Diaz 1036 Danielle Burton 996 Michelle Hunt 1037 Linda Torres 997 Melanie Sullivan 1038 Josephy Warren 998 Miranda Wong 1039 Daniel McDonald 999 Mallory Johnston 1040 Malory Adkins 1000 Gina H uber 1041 Brent Davis 1001 Jeffrey Larson 1042 James Stevens 1002 Charles Silva 1043 jJessica Levine 1003 Michelle Mills 1044 ISandra Scott 1004 Robert Ferguson 1045 Timothy Williams 1005 Ann Day 1046 Alexander Tanner 1006 Toni Wong 1047 Amanda Kemp 1007 Susan Baxter 1048 Mary Leon 1008 Kelly Huang 1049 lieremy Reynolds 1009 William Jenkins 1050 Timothy Ward 1010 Antonio Thornton 1051 David Orr 1011 Jessica Cruz 1052 Rebecca Cardenas 1012 Veronica Salas 1053 William Collins 1013 William Aguilar 1054 IHollyJensen 1014 Jacqueline Johnson 1055 Kevin Davis 1015 Carlos Jordan 1056 Kevin Gates 1016 Angela Lowe 1057 Malik Schultz 1017 Lauren Roberts 1058 Kimberly Daniel 1018 Vanessa Franklin 1059 Katie Estrada 1019 Jason White 1060 Patricia Brown 1020 Jennifer Larson 1061 Tiffany Griffin 1021 Jessica Harrington 1062 Jasmine Smith 1022 Patricia Mitchell I 1063 Brandi Coleman 1023 1 Robin Contreras 1 1064 jAnne Ramsey REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 1065 Sherry Gross 1106 Tammy Parsons 1066 Mark Jackson 1107 Mark Contreras 1067 Paul Johnson 1108 Anthony Wilson 1068 Brian Dominguez 1109 Christopher Bauer 1069 Stacie Evans 1110 Maria Turner 1070 Scott Lee 1111 April Campbell 1071 Jason Anderson 1112 Kimberly Adnrews 1072 Stephanie Mueller 1113 Brooke Maldonado 1073 Robert Leach 1114 Hannah Ford 1074 Grant Reyes 1115 Catherine Ruiz 1075 Connie Rogers 1116 Allen Morton 1076 Ryan Brown 1117 Henry Hart 1077 Andrea Green 1118 Robert Lewis 1078 Jessica Vincent 1119 William Allen 1079 Steven Davis 1120 Chase David 1080 Joshua Fletcher 1121 Aaron Fostewr 1081 William Gomez 1122 Janice Bishop 1082 Julie Rodriguez 1123 Eric Williams 1083 Donna Meyers 1124 Jay Carter 1084 Derrick Singleton 1125 Christopher White 1085 Traci Harrell 1126 Martin Johnson 1086 Aimee Campbell 1127 Megan Roberts 1087 Brenda Lewis 1128 Richard Perez 1088 Richard Elliott 1129 Angel Carter 1089 Matthew Gibbs 1130 Nathan Lin 1090 Sherri Thompson 1131 Juan Hoffman 1091 Jose McGuire 1132 Jason Peters 1092 Laura Martinez 1133 Glenn Boyd 1093 Aiko Yamashiro 1134 Tara Barnes 1094 Nicole Hernandez 1135 Jason Gordon 1095 Rhonda Giles 1136 Kurt Johnson 1096 Richard Cortez 1137 Mary Baird 1097 Melinda Tucker 1138 Charles Parsons 1098 Jamie Herrera 1139 Meredith Huber 1099 Andre Woods 1140 Gabriela Nichols 1100 Willie Figueroa 1141 Walter Watkins 1101 Jessica James 1142 Edwin McCoy 1102 Thomas White 1143 Tony Suarez 1103 John Pham 1144 Krista Gomez 1104 Jill Suarez 1145 Kimberly Wyatt 1105 Dana Morales 1146 Leonard Gomez REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name No# Name 1065 Sherry Gross 1106 Tammy Parsons 1066 Mark Jackson 1107 Mark Contreras 1067 Paul Johnson 1108 Anthony Wilson 1068 Brian Dominguez 1109 Christopher Bauer 1069 Stacie Evans 1110 Maria Turner 1070 Scott Lee 1111 April Campbell 1071 Jason Anderson 1112 Kimberly Adnrews 1072 Stephanie Mueller 1113 Brooke Maldonado 1073 Robert Leach 1114 Hannah Ford 1074 Grant Reyes 1115 Catherine Ruiz 1075 Connie Rogers 1116 Allen Morton 1076 Ryan Brown 1117 Henry Hart 1077 Andrea Green 1118 Robert Lewis 1078 9n7n Jessica Vincent I C4-- r%... :_ 1119 William Allen -- • 1080 ` " _o V'.]� Joshua Fletcher 11Lu 1121 unase uavid Aaron Fostewr 1081 William Gomez 1122 Janice Bishop 1082 Julie Rodriguez 1123 Eric Williams 1083 Donna Meyers 1124 Jay Carter 1084 Derrick Singleton 1125 Christopher White 1085 Traci Harrell 1126 Martin Johnson 1086 Aimee Campbell 1127 Megan Roberts 1087 Brenda Lewis 1128 Richard Perez 1088 Richard Elliott 1129 Angel Carter 1089 Matthew Gibbs 1130 Nathan Lin 1090 Sherri Thompson 1131 Juan Hoffman 1091 Jose McGuire 1132 Jason Peters 1092 Laura Martinez 1133 Glenn Boyd 1093 Aiko Yamashiro 1134 Tara Barnes 1094 Nicole Hernandez 1135 Jason Gordon 1095 Rhonda Giles 1136 Kurt Johnson 1096 Richard Cortez 1137 Mary Baird 1097 Melinda Tucker 1138 Charles Parsons 1098 Jamie Herrera 1139 Meredith Huber 1099 Andre Woods 1140 Gabriela Nichols 1100 Willie Figueroa 1141 Walter Watkins 1101 Jessica James 1142 Edwin McCoy 1102 Thomas White 1143 Tony Suarez 1103 John Pham 1144 Krista Gomez 1104 Jill Suarez 1145 Kimberly Wyatt 1105 Dana Morales 1146 Leonard Gomez REJECTS BILL 51, Draft 3 (Support Humane Solutions for Community Cats) No# Name 1147 Brooke Vaquez 1148 Michael Welch 1149 Michael Herman 1150 Samantha Perez 1151 Donna Williams 1152 Daniel Murphy 1153 Barbara Leblanc 1154 Todd Lopez 1155 Katie Guerrero 1156 Terersa Evans 1157 Lisa Nelson 1158 Sharon Mitchell 1159 Megan Patel 1160 Cheryl Williams 1161 Tara Alvarez 1162 Cindy Lopez 1163 Wayne Richards 1164 Curtis Clark 1165 Stacy Sanders 1166 Jordan Hernandez 1167 Patricia Brewer 1168 Kimberly Lawrence 1169 Douglas Klein 1170 Jason Phillips 1171 Philip Wade 1172 John White 1173 Jennifer Dalton 11 44 Sharon Lee William Bryant 176 Tina Bradshaw r1175 177 Matthew Singleton 178 Jesse Turner 1179 Jennifer Ward 1180 Mark McDaniel 1181 Anthony Orr 1182 Scott Thompson 1183 Lisa Woods 1184 Tina Richards 1185 John Carr 1186 Kristopher Jensen 1187 lBenjamin Parsons No# Name 1188 Pamela Chavez 1189 Wesley Calhoun {� / c.AWICl I bill n comm. z!? From: Jeanne Alford Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 8:41 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Dear Council Members, I've managed a small cat colony on Big Island for 13 years. The same 7 cats. They were all trapped and neutered. They all had a "home". They've lived a good life. We are now down to 2 as they've slowly passed away. TNR works. There are resources. There are people who care. Logically, it's the only way to mitigate the overpopulation of the cats on the Big Island. Thanks for your time. Jeanne Alford CD 1 From: Debbie Holzer Sent: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 11:21 AM�� To: Council Testimony' Subject: Request for consideration Re: Bill 51 Dear Councilmembers, --- C) XAJ- Alley Cat Rescue urges you to vote no on Bill 51 in its present form. Although the intent of the bK51s to --- protect wildlife and keep public areas cleanly, prohibiting the feeding of outdoor cats on public property would be a misguided step to take toward those goals. We acknowledge and commend the efforts you have taken so far to mitigate the suffering that a feeding ban would have on feral cats, particularly the added amendment that would create a county Trap - Neuter -Return program. However, such a program will only be possible if trappers are permitted to feed the cats on a regular schedule. Cats must be conditioned to expect food at specific times in order for food to be effective bait for traps. Having a group of cats gather all together for feedings also enables trappers to spot any who still need to be sterilized, including newly abandoned pets. As many others have testified, a Trap -Neuter -Return initiative with the full support of the county, including the allowance of feeding the cats, will cause the outdoor cat population to dwindle over time until the county grounds are eventually guarded from new, unsterilized ferals by a relatively small number of sterilized, healthy cats. Abandonment of pet cats would work against the progress of such a program. Any fine that is proposed for feeding feral cats should be redirected (and perhaps increased) for abandoning a cat. Additionally, mandatory sterilization of pet cats (with reasonable exceptions on a case -by -case basis) should be diligently enforced. Lastly, we hope that you will consider the wellbeing of outdoor cats alongside that of the nene and other wildlife. A small, well-fed population of outdoor cats will be a minimal threat to other animals; the cats will hunt less and their immune systems will be better able to fight zoonotic diseases a malnourished cat's system could not. The cats themselves will benefit from better health and less stress. This last point is important to many residents of Hawaii County and to all of us who view cats as individual, intrinsically valuable, sentient animals. Sincerely, Louise Holton (forAlley Cat Rescue, Inc.) President / Founder www saveacat.org From: Sandra Alstrand Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:21 AM To: Council Testimony , r..a Subject: Testimony re: Bill 51 o ? c. Bit[ 51 -August 6"' Hearing Testimony='- Name: Sandra Alstrand, BSW, MA Board member of Action4Animals Hawaii; Centers for Spiritual Living East Hawaii. t� Resident, resides in District 4 1 OPPOSE BILL 51. There has been a tremendous amount of testimony presented against this bill, citing studies supportingTNR and rebuking "remove and kill policies". I am not going to state what has already been given to this committee, as I am sure that you can and will read all the testimony presented. I want to approach this from a different angle. According to Forbes, 46.5 million households in the United States own a cat. The World Animal Foundation puts that total at 49 million as reported this year. Cats are our companions and work for us. Action4Animals has a working cat program where we provide cats to farms and individuals who are having rodent problems and don't want to use toxic chemicals to control them. This is a very popular program and shows that cats are doing a service to our communities. I have fed cat colonies here in Hawaii for at least 15 years and have witnessed firsthand how people enjoy the cats when they see me feeding them. Tourists often stop and commend our efforts to be kind to the cats we are managing and maintaining. They are glad to see that the people of Hawaii are truly compassionate and caring. There have been many organizations and individuals from the mainland that have given testimony opposing this bill, horrified that our government would cruelly starve and abandon the cats of our island. I can see this affecting tourism, which is one of our main sources of revenue on this island. I implore you to do the right thing and follow in the footsteps of Maui and Lanai and let us continue to feed and carry outTRN of our community cats. Vote against Bill 51. Thankyou, Sandra Alstrand From: Debbie Anderson Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 11:46 PM To: Council Testimony — Subject: AGAINST Bill 51 (for August 6); pro spay neuter as only solution =-' -< _: ', ' 03 TESTIFY AUG 6. EMAIL TESTIMONY BY AUG 5 NOON v, _;> to - Aloha, I am writing before Noon on August 5 to testify. Could you at least ensure my written testimony is on record? At what has become Wailoa Park, generations of families have fed ducks as part of teaching our keiki to take care of animals. On County property stray animals have been dumped, and may be starving. Though my co -rescuer has taken photos of the license plates of cat dumpers, nothing has been done about this. One late June dump in our neighborhood included at least 5 females out of 7 kittens. At least 6 of these were spay/neutered, and 1 adopted. My neighborhood animal population will go out of control if Bill51 passes! Unfortunately, Animal Control focuses on dogs which can bite. Feral cats are not well managed. The most important contribution our county can make is to fund spay neuter efforts, which are now done privately. For example, I have spent thousands of dollars and spay/neutered 63 cats who were dumped in my Wailoa Park neighborhood. My son has used this as his community service project for his public school, as is learning to take care of animals less fortunate than ourselves. A co -rescuer and I use fish nets from Tokunaga store to capture animals during feeding. Our record for one session is 14 cats taken in for spay/neutering. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to catch more than this yet. It takes time for cats to Learn to trust feeders enough for us to be able to capture them. In order for us to help to prevent further overpopulation, we need to be able to feed animals as a means to trap and spay/neuter them. EVERY trap is baited with FOOD! If Bill 51 becomes part of County policy, it will completely impede what is necessary for our spay and neuter efforts. Bill 51 is absolutely crazy! Animal cruelty is part of statute already. This bill is CRUEL, and in direct opposition of animal management. It is SHAMEFUL. PLEASE do NOT pass this out of committee! Mahalo for listening to myself and on behalf of other co -rescuers, Debbie and Cormac Anderson 719 Mililani Street Hilo, HI 96720-4329 � C"J From: Carmen Antaky CD Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 3:18 PM == w To: Council Testimony rg Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 - < �i Aloha a Councilmembers, y>; I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Carmen Antaky Sent from (Phone From: saguiar808 c-, CD Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 4:45 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Opposing Resolution 140-25 -1 ~� Aloha a Councilmembers, 117 T> I am writing in opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. -� I previously supported this bill in its original intent of prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property. do not support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. I urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo foryour time and leadership, Stacey Aguiar Email: Saguiar808@gmail.com Cel: (808) 937-3483 WARNING: This communication, along with any attachments, is covered by Federal and State law governing electronic communications and may contain private, confidential, and legally privileged information intended solely for the use of the addressee. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, use or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this in error, you are advised that you may not disclose, copy, distribute or take any other action in reliance on the information transmitted. Unauthorized use of information contained therein is subject to enforcement action under Federal laws and regulations: Contains information controlled under the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a). From: Derek Bacigal Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:25 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony in Support of Bill 51 — Feral Animal Feeding Ban Dear Chair and Council Members, My name is Derek Bacigal, Board President of the Kona Heavens Homeowners Association and Director of Facilities at a local luxury resort. I am writing in support of Bill 51. Feral cats are not simply a nuisance —they are an ecological and operational threat. For years, I've dealt with the persistent disruption caused by these animals both at my workplace and at my own home. The damage, noise, and sanitation issues are not theoretical —they are tangible and ongoing. Left unchecked, the feeding of feral animals only exacerbates the problem and signals passive acceptance of their growing impact. It's time we shift from well-meaning sentimentality to decisive action. Compassion cannot come at the cost of environmental degradation and neighborhood instability. Bill 51 delivers a necessary framework for enforcement while also encouraging responsible alternatives like managed Trap -Neuter -Return (TNR) programs. I urge the Council to adopt this measure and stand firmly in support of community well-being, native species protection, and practical governance. Mahalo for your leadership. `"' Sincerely, Derek Bacigal �X- w -- From: Greg Baker Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:13 AM To: Council Testimony; Greg Baker Subject: OPPOSE BILL 51 - GREG PU'UWAI ALOHA BAKER - %$WdQ j MEETING COUNTY OF HAWAn RECEIVED BILL 51 - AUG 6 HEARING TESTIMONY ma,55 ,M Date NAME: Greg Pu'uwai Aloha Baker, MBA, CCM CREDENTIALS: Graduate of University of Pacific Community Cat Management program (certificate - CCM). RESIDENT/VOTER: 2003 - current, District 4 - Ashley Kierkiewicz. OHANA: Puna Keli'iho'omalu and Robert Keli'iho'omalu's Ohana. VOLUNTEER: Petfix HQHVSN Events (post op recovery), Aloha Animal Alliance HQHVSN Events (post op recovery), TNR 60 plus cats, Community Cat Colony Steward for 6 colonies in Pahoa, founded Kahu Popoki org to Care for Our Cat Ohana focused on Kanaka Maoli, founded Hawaii Animal Advocacy. OPPOSED TO BILL 51 Please accept my testimony in opposition to Bill 51. I have chosen to share the position taken by Maui Humane Society for a similar Feeding Ban in 2020 which they successfully stopped! With the overwhelming opposition to Bill 51 by our community I am at a loss as to why this bill continues to move forward. Therefore, I am sharing the expertise of this respected organization on Maui that I hope can support the stopping of Bill 51 here on Hawai'i Nei. Year 2020. Maui Humane Society OPPOSES bill 6.04.041 banning the feeding of all feral animals. Here's why. 1. Feeding bans lead to increased bird predation. Published research shows that cats who subsist by hunting alone will kill far more birds than cats whose diets are subsidized by humans. (Biological Conservation, 214 (2017) 76-87, Woinarski et al How Manv Cats are Killed in Australia?) https://www sciencedirect com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006320717302719 Feral cats in natural (wild) environments who subsist entirely by predation: -129 birds/yr killed Feral cats in highly modified environments (human -based food sources are available) --61.5 birds/yr killed Domestic Pet cats: -15.6 birds/yr killed 2. Feeding Bans are Counterproductive to Addressing Concerns about Toxoplasmosis. Researchers studying Toxoplasmosis in sea otters off the coast of California found a significantly lower prevalence of the disease in managed feral cats (17%) than wild cats or unmanaged feral cats subsisting on wild prey (73-81 %). This makes intuitive sense, of course, since cats are infected with Toxoplasmosis through their prey. (EcoHealth 10. 277-289, 2013 2013 International Association for Ecology and Health. VanWormer et al Toxoplasma gondii Source to Sea: Higher Contribution of Domestic Felids to Terrestrial,:Parasite Loading Despite Lower Infection Prevalence) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bubmed/24048652 3. TNR is the most effective, humane path to less cats. Trap -neuter -return (TNR) is a management technique in which community cats are humanely trapped, evaluated, spayed or neutered by a licensed veterinarian, ear -tipped to show they've been sterilized, dewormed, optionally vaccinated and then returned to their original habitat. Maui Humane Society offers this as a free service made possible by grants. Targeted TNR (i.e., maximizing the number of cats sterilized at the colony or neighborhood level) offers several benefits over less humane approaches that have been used for decades without success. These benefits include: • Reduced shelter intake of cats and kittens • Reduced shelter deaths of cats and kittens • Stabilized and (over time) reduced community cat population • Reduced number of nuisance complaints Published Case Studies: • Alley Cat Allies — Trap -Neuter -Return Research Compendium https://www.alleycat.org/resources/trap-neuter-return-research-compendium/ • Best Friends Trap -Neuter -Return (TNR) Success Stories https:Hbestfriends.ora/pet-care-resources/community-cat-trap-neuter-vaccinate-return tnvr success -stories Related Topics 1. Cat sanctuaries can be a solution for smaller communities with less cats — but for Maui, it would be extremely costly and impractical. Lana'i Cat Sanctuary states that it costs $1,000 per cat per year to maintain their facility — not including starting costs to purchase land, set up enclosures, and provide ongoing veterinary care. 40,000 cats on Maui x $1000/cat/year x average life 8 years = $320,000,000 It costs an average of $50 to spay or neuter a cat and stop it from multiplying. Aggressive, strategic TNR is vastly more cost-effective and impactful when it comes to reducing cat populations. https:Hlanaicatsanctuary.org/about-us/#takes 2. Eradication/Relocation Doesn't Work. Each time cats are removed, the population will rebound through a well -documented phenomenon known as the "vacuum effect," drawing the community into a costly, endless cycle of trapping and killing. No matter how many animals are removed, if the resources remain, the population will eventually recover. Any cats remaining after a catch and kill effort will produce kittens and at a higher survival rate, filling the habitat to capacity. As this study found, "populations greatly reduced by culling are likely to rebound quickly." Over time, the number of cats in an area where a feral cat colony has been killed or relocated will eventually recover and return to its original size. A Closer Look at Community Cats (ASPCA) https://www aspca org/helping-shelters-people-pets/closer-look-community-cats The Vacuum Effect: Why Catch and Kill Doesn't Work (Alley Cat Allies) https:l/www alleycat oralresourceslthe-vacuum-effect-why-catch-and-kill-doesnt-work/ 3. Maui Human Society - Public Statement in Maui News Author: Steve MacKinnon, CEO of Maui Humane Society wrote this in response to attempt at a Feeding Ban on Maui (yes, he is an expert in issues with cat management). "Spay/neuter offers the only path to fewer Cats Council Member Riki Hokama is proposing an ordinance to ban all feeding of feral animals. In his Council's 3 Minutes (March 14), Hokama, chairman of the Healthy Families and Communities Committee, stated that cats on Maui are harming people by transmitting toxoplasmosis and are responsible for 12 monk seals dying from this disease. These conclusions are based on inaccurate testimony given to Hokama's committee at an earlier hearing. To cure cat overpopulation, Hokama had suggested a feeding ban on public lands, all owned cats to be licensed, and limits on the number of pets a resident can own. In addition, he wants the idea of cat sanctuaries to be explored. We agree with Hokama that cat overpopulation is a serious issue within our community. But others have overstated the harm caused. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, most people catch the toxoplasmosis parasite by eating undercooked meat or raw shellfish, not from cats. Notably, in the 10 years from 2009 to 2018, there were only 11 cases reported on Maui. If toxoplasmosis from cats was a significant public health risk, surely this number would be much higher. When it comes to monk seals, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration reports the monk seal population is thankfully increasing. The 12 seals, which died from toxoplasmosis over the course of 19 years, could have gotten it from shellfish, meat used as crab bait, or the carcass of a rat or mongoose and not from cats. Inaccurate claims about cats distract from the real issue — how do we lower their numbers in a permanent, sustainable way? The laws suggested by Hokama have been attempted over the years by hundreds of communities and not once has it resulted in fewer cats. We already know people won't comply and enforcement is difficult and costly. While sanctuaries may be a good idea on their face, they are expensive, do not control the population and would only hold a fraction of the cats now on our island. In the two decades prior to 2015, Maui tried to euthanize its way out of cat overpopulation. At least 75,000 cats were euthanized. Yet nothing changed. In 2015, we at the Maui Humane Society instituted a new direction. At no cost to the public, the cats are spayed and neutered and their left ears tipped to identify them. No longer able to reproduce, the cats' numbers are gradually declining; as evidenced by the over 25 percent drop in cats being surrendered to Maui Humane Society. National research has seen similar results and spay/neuter programs have proven effective in numerous peer -reviewed, published studies. Maui has found its solution — spay/neuter. It's working and deserves council and community support. We look forward to working with Chairman Hokama and all others in the community to address this challenge. https://www.mauinews.com/opinion/columns/202O/O5/spay-neuter offers the only path to fewer cats/ Thank you for considering my testimony in opposition of Bill 51. 1 hope this was both helpful and educational as my desire it to support all of us to successfully stabilize the free roaming cat population and reduce it over time! Yes, my goal and all whom I have spoken with, is to have ZERO FREE ROAMING CATS. The petition shared in last testimony for the last council meeting did an excellent job of highlighting what is needed so please refer to it. I am always happy to make myself available for questions, educational sessions, and to support committee work. My college certificate in Cat Population Management from University of the Pacific plus having over 5 years of in-depth experience with Cats helps me to have a lot to offer. Mahalo nui loa for your kokua, Greg Pu'uwai Aloha Baker. From: susanblueyes2-gs Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 6:52 AM To: Council Testimony Cc: Kagiwada, Jennifer; Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka; Hustace, James; Kimball, HeatherCD r Subject: PLEASE!! OPPOSE BILL 51 Dear County Council Members, - Please OPPOSE BILL 51 This is not a practical, compassionate or helpful bill and as reported at the last meeting by 90ur Own head of Animal control, it is not enforceable nor addresses the problem at hand which is people unable to care for their pets who dump them! This Bill is nothing more than an UGLY AUTHORITARIAN edit and you are not our Queens or Kings, but our representatives to whom we have LOUDLY and clearly told you as your constituents that we are AGAINST this Bill in any of its iterations. Whether you personally like cats, strays or those who care to help them is not of importance. Your JOB is to represent the will of the people who en masse have inundated your offices with pleas to not pass this bill. Please do your due diligence to REPRESENT the will of the people heard loudly on this matter entreating you to VOTE NO ON BILL 51. Thank you for your time and attention on this matter, Susan Bambara Kurtistown From: Michelle Barbe Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 5:41 AM ry � To: Council Testimony Subject: oppose Bill 5103 { Subject: Opposition to Proposed Ban on Feeding Cats on County y Property Bill 51 Dear Members of the Hawaii County Council, I am writing to respectfully express my strong opposition to any proposed legislation that would make it illegal to feed cats on county property. The vast majority of these cats were not born in the wildlife they were abandoned or dumped by people who, for various reasons, could no longer care for them. This is a human -created issue, and it deserves a humane and responsible solution, not punishment directed at those who are trying to help. Across our island, privately funded, volunteer -led groups and individuals have stepped up where resources are scarce. These compassionate people give their time, money, and energy to trap, spay/neuter, medically treat, and feed these cats. Many of these cats are already sterilized and pose no threat of further reproduction. Banning feeding on county property would not only endanger these cats by depriving them of food and oversight, it would also undermine the hard work and success of these community -led Trap -Neuter -Return (TNR) efforts. Feeding bans do not solve the root problem they only push it out of sight, where it grows unchecked. Without consistent care, sterilized cats may scatter, become malnourished, and even die slow and painful deaths from treatable conditions. Additionally, unmonitored areas could become home to new, unsterilized cats, thereby reversing progress and increasing long-term costs for the county. The humane and effective solution is to support the work of these volunteer caretakers. With county cooperation rather than criminalization together we can continue reducing cat colony populations over time and ensure the cats that are here live out their lives with dignity. Please consider the long-term impact of this decision, both on the cats and on our community. These caregivers are not the problem; they are a crucial part of the solution. Sincerely, Michelle Barbe 408-930-5199 13-979 Kahukai St, Pahoa z From: Kerri Barrett Sent' Monday, August 4, 2025 3:19 PM ' To: Council Testimony C ©c , Subject: Bill 51 r. C - CD Kerri Barrett 73-1313 Onaona Drive, #9C Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96740 August 4, 2025 to w - Dear council members, I urge you to oppose Bill 51, which proposes a feeding ban for free -roaming cats. These bans are ineffective, lack scientific support, and are opposed by major animal welfare organizations like the Humane Society, ASPCA, and National Animal Care and Control Association. In addition, they are just cruel. No evidence shows feeding bans reduce cat populations; cats persist due to trash and other food sources, and will do so as long as people keep dumping their pets at Old A's and other places in our county. Humane Trap -Neuter -Return (TNR) programs, like those run by Aloha Animal Alliance, are already reducing cat populations through free spay/neuter surgeries. Feeding bans hinder TNR by preventing caregivers from trapping cats, leading to more kittens. These bans also waste taxpayer dollars and criminalize compassionate citizens, alienating communities. Please reject Bill 51 and support proven, humane TNR programs instead. Please listen to science, and don't allow cruelty to become law in our county. Thank you for prioritizing compassion, respect for our people, and the health of our land. Sincerely, Kerri Barrett From: Erin Bell o c Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:47 AM _ Council Testimony ' To: Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 CD Aloha a Councilmembers, w I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While I previously suppoRed this bill in that it was prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property, I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land, the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. Feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a charismatic n6n� gosling that was loved by the public died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens, a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders, this directly preserves the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to HawaiTs native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land, including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Please see citations of peer -reviewed literature below certifying the harm of feral cats on public property. Mahalo for your time and leadership, Erin Bell Citations: Loss, S. R., Will, T., Marra, P. P., & The Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center. (2013). The impact of free -ranging domestic cats on wildlife of the United States. Nature Communications, 4(1), 1396. doi: 10. 1 038/ncomms2380 Nogales, M., Martin, A., Tershy, B. R., Donlan, C. J., Veitch, D., Puerta, N., ... & Alonso, J. (2004). A review of feral cat eradication on islands. Conservation Biology, 18(2), 310-319. doi:10.1111/j.1523-1739.2004.00442.x Dabritz, H. A., Atwill, E. R., Gardner, I. A., Miller, M. A., & Conrad, P. A. (2006). Outdoor fecal deposition by free -roaming cats and attitudes of cat owners and nonowners toward stray pets, wildlife, and water pollution. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 229(1), 74-81. doi: 1 0.2460/javma.229.1.74 From: T - F Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:38 AM To: Council Testimony 4.. w Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, w `- I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While weyAreviously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this Legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Thomas Bojorquez 2 From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha Council Members, Donna Bouldin Monday, August 4, 2025 11:04 AM Council Testimony; Donna Bouldin Testimony Supporting 51 Thank you for reading my testimony. v-i .a o- :. o C C: TLDR: opposition to Bill 51 Draft 3 - The amendment allowing "certified cat caretakers" to feed feral cats on county property defeats the bill's original purpose. The Crisis by Numbers: Cats kill 1.3-4 billion birds annually in US 237 endangered birds killed at one Kauai refuge in one year Cats shed up to 800 million toxic parasite eggs that kill native species (link to evidence below) Personal Impact: I live next to county property with 15-20 cat colony. Feeder refuses to spay / neuter because it's 'cruel' Cats eliminated my chicken flock, contaminated garden with feces Constant hunting of birds/butterflies despite being fed by colony feeder Bottom Line: TNR doesn't work (needs 71-94% sterilization), feeding sustains deadly colonies. Hawaii = extinction capital of US. Need complete ban on feeding, no exemptions. Request: Restore original Bill 51 language without the exemption for'certified cat caretakers'. I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While I previously supported this bill in its original intent, prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property. I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment fundamentally undermines the bill's purpose and ignores the overwhelming scientific evidence documenting the severe environmental harm caused by feral cats. We cannot continue to ignore the terrible economic harm feral cats and other wild animals cause on our islands. It is time the county takes firm and decisive action. The Data on Environmental Destruction is Clear and Alarming Cats kill 1.3-4 billion birds annually in the United States alone, making them the single greatest source of direct, human -caused mortality for birds in the United States and Canada. Approximately 69% of these bird deaths are caused by unowned feral cats rather than pets. Approximately 99% of the birds killed are native species. Here in Hawaii, the situation is particularly devastating. Officials at the Kaua'i National Wildlife Refuge Complex discovered that cats had killed at least 237 endangered birds in just one year, including Hawaiian Common Galtinule, Hawaiian Coot, Hawaiian Black -necked Stilt, and Koloa Maoli (Hawaiian Duck). Over the course of just three weeks, feral cats killed 22 Laysan Albatross chicks. A study found that in two years cats killed more than 250 native birds at Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge. Last year alone, a single cat killed 12 Newell's Shearwaters, a critically endangered seabird endemic to Hawaii. Feral cats on islands have contributed to the extinction of 33 species globally and are the principal threat to 8% of critically endangered birds, mammals, and reptiles. In Hawaii specifically, cats are indiscriminate predators that kill endangered species such as'Ua'u (Hawaiian Petrel), Palita, Nene (Hawaiian Goose), and many other species. Toxoptasmosis The toxoplasmosis threat is not theoretical, the parasites are killing our endangered species right now. Cats can shed 3 to 800 million infectious eggs into the environment through their feces in the weeks after they are initially infected. It only takes the ingestion of a single egg to cause an infection. These eggs are hardy and can survive in water and soil for 24 months, possibly longer. Recent research from coastal California found that 25.9% of feral cat feces samples tested positive for T. gondii DNA, with parasite DNA being significantly higher during the wet season. In Hawaii, between 21 and 48 percent of endangered Hawaiian Geese tested positive for toxoplasmosis. Nearly 40 percent of 67 cats captured from the slopes of Mauna Kea tested positive for toxoptasmosis. The parasite has already killed multiple Hawaiian monk seals, nene, Hawaiian crows, and spinner dolphins. After the deaths of a dozen monk seals in just a few years, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration concluded that this parasite is a serious threat to the Hawaiian Monk seat population. As the testimony mentions, in April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within Liti`uokalani Gardens, a location known for daily cat feeding. The Scale of Feral Cat Problem Hawaii faces a staggering feral cat crisis. We are facing massive environmental contamination across all islands. Large populations of feral cats and T. gondii contamination near marine habitats can pose a risk for threatened and endangered marine mammals. Recent deaths of species that do not directly interact with cats, such as Hawaiian monk seals, suggest that neighborhoods, beaches, and waterways may be heavily contaminated. Why TNR and Managed Colonies Don't Work The scientific consensus is clear: Trap -Neuter -Return programs are not effective. Models show that for TNR to be successful, between 71 % and 94% of all cats in the colony must be spayed or neutered. The establishment or maintenance of cat colonies encourages people to release additional cats. In some cases, TNR may actually increase population size compared to no intervention at all. F1 From a public health perspective, trap -neuter -vaccinate -return programs do not reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis or rabies exposure for human populations. Even managed colonies continue shedding deadly parasites and killingwildlife. Both managed and unmanaged colonies had evidence of T. gondii DNA in feces. This Amendment Contradicts State and Federal Positions This amendment directly conflicts with both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. The Hawaii Invasive Species Council lists feral cats among the most harmful invasive species globally by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages TNR programs and colony feeding, recognizing that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. Personal experience As someone who lives adjacent to county property, I witness firsthand the devastating reality that this amendment would perpetuate. For years, a well-meaning individual has maintained a feeding station that supports 15-20 feral cats whose population ebbs and flows like a tide of ecological disruption. Despite the feeder's good intentions, these cats remain unsterilized, turning our neighborhood into a breeding ground for environmental destruction. These cats have rendered my property uninhabitable for the small livestock I once kept. My chicken flock, which provided both sustenance and connection to the land, fell victim to relentless predation. One by one, these skilled hunters eliminated every bird I attempted to raise, making it impossible for me to maintain even the most basic agricultural practices on my own land. The contamination extends beyond direct predation. My garden has become a minefield of fecal contamination. The very soil that should nurture life instead harbors parasites that threaten both human and animal health. I watch helplessly as native birds and the delicate butterflies fall prey to cats whose every instinct drives them to hunt, regardless of how well-fed they may be. This is not merely a nuisance, it is the daily erosion of biodiversity happening in real time across our islands. What I experience in my backyard mirrors the larger catastrophe unfolding across Hawaii's public lands, where feeding stations transform natural spaces into hunting grounds for invasive predators. Decisive Action Based on Science The most critical aspect of addressing this crisis is our willingness to prioritize scientific evidence over sentiment. We must recognize that good intentions cannot override biological reality. Every day we delay decisive action, we harm irreplaceable native species while contaminating our environment with deadly parasites. The most important step is implementing a complete prohibition on feral cat feeding on public lands, without exemptions, without compromise, and without the false promise that managed colonies can somehow mitigate the damage. We need policies that reflect the urgency of Hawaii's extinction crisis and the scientific consensus that feral cats pose an existential threat to our native ecosystems. We Cannot Afford More Extinctions Hawaii is the extinction capital of the United States with over 400 species listed as threatened or endangered, and home to six bird species considered critically endangered. Every day we delay action, we lose more native birds and contaminate more of our environment with deadly parasites. Draft 3's exemption for "certified" feeders preserves the exact problematic status quo that created the need for this bill. It signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at feeding sites is acceptable, sustains colonies that kill endangered species, and maintains the parasite contamination that's killing our marine mammals. My Request I urge you to restore the original language of Bill 51 as seen in Draft 2. The science is unambiguous: feral cat feeding on public lands must end completely, without exemptions, if we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks. Our endangered nene, Hawaiian petrels, and monk seals cannot afford political compromise in the face of extinction. The data demands decisive action. Mahalo for your time and consideration of the scientific evidence. Donna Bouldin Hilo resident Sources Bird Mortality Statistics: • Cornell Lab of Ornithology: https://www.attaboutbirds.org/news/faq-outdQor-cats-and-their effects -on -birds/ • American Bird Conservancy: httos•//abcbirds org/pogram/cats-indoors/cats and birds/ • Nature Communications study: https://www—nature.com/artictes/ncomms2380 Toxoplasmosis Research: NOAA Fisheries (Hawaii marine wildlife): baps•//www fisheries noaa gov/pacific islands/endang red -species conservation/toxoplasmosis and its effects hawaii marine PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases: httos://iournals to orgiptosntdis/article?id=10 1371/journal pntdi 0011829 Scientific American (monk seals): naps•//www scientificamerican c-Qm/article/cat disease threatens -endangered -monk -seals/ Hawaii Population Data: • • • �1� •IIIi • ••� • •• �. •• �� •I l 1• -. "About half on Big Island": http, louisegund com/this is what you-need-to-know-about- hawaiis-cat-crisis/ Local Hawaii Island News Coverage: Big Island Now: Queens' Marketplace poll (2,836 voters): https:/IbigistandnQw.com/2023/04/29/what-actiQn-- =nW7 • • • •_ .1• • • 1 1 1• •• •- - • -• • • h- .n• j.w. • • ••- KIN Coverage: Wailoa State Recreation Area: https //www kite com/news/advocates-call-for-solution-to-big- islana feral cat feeding ban/article 9dl 5e472 ed6e l l ed-a8bf-23e8l a74bOd6 html State/Official Sources: • Hawaii Invasive Species Council: https' /dlnr hawaii gov/hisc/info/invasive-s ep cies- profiles/feral-cats/ • Big Island Invasive Species Committee: https://www.biisc.Qrg/pest/feral-cats/ Date: To: From RE: August 4, 2025 Hawaii County Council Carrie Borge, Co-founder Lei Kupuna Resident Org., Ikaika Leo Testimony for Council Meeting August 6, 2025 -o Aloha Chairman Inaba and esteemed Council, 0 �a My name is Carrie Borge I am a resident at Lei Kupuna Senior Housing in Kailua Kona in District 8. I strongly support Bill 51 with the fine enforcement. The feeding of feral cats, mongoose, chickens and goats on the County sidewalk across the street from Lei Kupuna's entrance has been a menace and unsanitary situation. A cat feeding station has been operating on the County sidewalk directly across from our community for 7 years. (Photo attached). Being in close proximity to Lei Kupuna has urine and feces on proper and in our hallways. AvoCat is supplying the cat food being dumped and stored on the County sidewalk. That is prohibited by county ordinances. I suggest oversight for "certified community cat caretakers." For years the police have responded to our complaints and have instructed the removal of cat food containers and items off the County sidewalk, but days later these items are back. Bill 51 supports effective police enforcement. Thank you for the opportunity to share my testimony and your consideration on this important state wide issue. Please vote in favor of Bill 51 with the fine enforcement. Respectfully, Carrie Borge 74-5285 Ka'eka St. #4305 Kailua Kona, HI 96740 1/ i{ t I' { � t � E I F i I i1 r $$ i. C From: Emily Brines Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 7:44 AM Council Testimony To: Subject: Testimony opposing Resolution 140-25'? t�l Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While I previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Emily Brines From: chasley Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:48 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Cat feeding bill Aloha Councilmembers, I'm opposed to this bill that prohibits feeding cats. I realize it's a problem, but starving those cats is not a good solution. Please come up with something better. I support those kind and generous citizens who treat the cats humanely by feeding them, and sometimes trapping them and having them spayed/neutered. Mahalo, r: C-J © c-; Charlie Charles Brister --. Mobile (206) 227-4394' 'w w - From: Rosemary Brown Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 12:14 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 I don't want to go to a county park and see starving cats, nor do tourists, like some third world country.Cats did not come here on their own, people brought them. We need more support for spay, neuter, trap, release. People dump cats because they can't afford to spay and neuter them. Let's get more education and help with that. From: sheila indamascus Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 10:04 PM a To: Council Testimony � - Subject: Bill 51 Q Dear Council Members Ln From me you're going to hear something you have not heard before. About a week ago my husband found at the Hilo transfer station next to a recycle bin a tiny kitten only days old. Her eyes and ears were still closed.She was crying. He brought her home and cared for her, giving her food and a box with a heat pad under it. He gave her a toy stuffed lamb that was fluffy and she snuggled up next to it and slept. The next day she passed away. After speaking to a friend I realized that she probably had not been placed lovingly on the asphalt. It was more likely that she had been thrown from a car window. Based on where she was found, I believe someone attempted to throw her into a recycle bin but missed and she fell on the asphalt. This newborn felt pain. She could also feel fear and loss, the loss of her mother's warmth and her siblings' life. This is where we live. Passing Bill 51 will further the culture of cruelty. When leaders indicate values, the public feels empowered to act on them in any way they please. What we need instead is support for compassion, even if it is just publicly acknowledged. People are feeding and fixing. My husband has fixed well over 60 cats in the past year. This is a small number compared to what people elsewhere are doing, but we are limited by our health and access to equipment. There is a pilot program for appropriate feeding and fixing in coordination with the DLNR, which this bill will kill. You can choose to be compassionate or to further a culture in which people dispose of cats in any way they please. Passing Bill 51 will make a statement about what kind of culture you wish this island to have. Sheila Brown 306 Mohouli Street Hilo HI 96720 r c� t From• William Brown Sent: • Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:07 AM a `c To: Council Testimony Subject: Oppose Bill 51 =' _ f.J W yw Wise government comes from both the head and the heart. Bill 51 satisfies neither. I urge you%m reject it. In my previous testimony, I spoke of my work in trap, neuter, release, and management (TNRM) of the cats at the Hilo Transfer Station. Despite testimony from supporters of Bill 51 that TNRM does not work, we have an example of how it can work here in Hilo. The addition of the amendment to allow this to continue was heartening, but not sufficient for me to support this bill. TNRM is a part of the solution, and with proper resources helps to mitigate the problem. However, to solve this problem in a humane way, the root causes need to be addressed. Proponents of Bill 51 like to stereotype its opponents as well meaning individuals who do not understand the need for protecting native species, and do not understand science. They rely on the stereotype of the "cat lady" when speaking of them and seek to either "educate" them, rather than listen to them. Such is not the case. The people who testify against this bill care about the survival of native species and are educated citizens who are themselves experts on issues regarding cats. I urge you to listen to us and work with us in finding solutions that are both humane and effective. I am a 68 year old retiree, originally from Florida. I grew up with the environmental movement of the 1960s and 1970s. I remember as a child living on the Florida Gulf Coast and walking pristine beaches, snorkeling with schools offish, and visiting mangrove swamps teeming with wildlife. I was introduced to environmental literature at the age of 12 when I read Rachel Carson's Silent Spring. As a college student I testified against drilling for oil in the Gulf of Mexico. Later I worked as a volunteer for the Nature Conservancy to help with habitat restoration projects. As an adult I watched as pressures from a growing population and greed lead to environmental compromises that degraded and destroyed native habitat and breeding grounds. Although I am not originally from Hawaii, I understand and respect the efforts hereto fight for native wildlife. I am not your enemy. Cats are not the problem. The animal who is engineering this destruction walks on two legs and calls this destruction "progress". We need to work together. My majors in college were philosophy and computer science, with a minor in government. I have also attended graduate school in both philosophy and computer science. While I do not have a postgraduate degree, I do consider myself to be educated and capable of understanding studies and making educated decisions. However, I question those studies when they differ from my own experiences and observations. Many who testify against this bill are also educated citizens. Do not dismiss what they have to say. They are a tremendous resource that should not be ignored. In my professional life, I worked 36 years on IT and business system projects in various roles, primarily at the Florida Department of Labor and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. When I left the Florida Department of Labor in 1994, my last position was as an Operations and Management Consultant. Two basic concepts that I have learned are: 1 1.) Put your resources into addressing the major causes. More attention should be given to habitat loss and degradation from human encroachment. These come in the form of increased pressure from increased numbers of residents and visitors, pollution, trauma from motor vehicles, and from what I hear, even golf balls. From my observations, the great majority of cats in public places come from abandoned cats brought to public places by people. What is needed to address this issue is increased monitoring of these locations and strict enforcement of animal abandonment laws. Simply placing signage in public places stating that "animal abandonment is not only cruel but is illegal" is not sufficient to deter the abandonment of animals. 2.) Find and address the root causes of the problem. The County needs a robust spay and neuter program that is affordable and easily available. This would be cheaper and more effective if you want to make a significant reduction to the number of unhomed cats. I urge the County to put its resources into this area. It will have the greatest impact. Having pets is a responsibility that should not be taken tightly if we want to reduce the number of unhomed cats. I recommend that the County require licensing, vaccination, microchipping, and mandatory spay and neuter of all cats on the island. This should be affordable to citizens, if not free, and transportation to clinics should be available to have the spay and neuter done. This is not a problem that you are going to solve by passing Bill 51. You need to work with animal welfare organizations to develop a solution. I understand the concern, but this bill will cause suffering and penalize people who are actively working to help solve the problem. The bill will make the situation worse, not better What we need is for the County to work with the feeders, other caregivers, and organizations working for humane solutions for unhomed animals. 1. If there are colonies where the cats are being fed and not trapped and neutered then resources need to be found to begin a Trap, Neuter, Release, and Manage program for that colony. 2. Affordable spay and neuter needs to be available to residents. 3. Residents need to be educated about the importance of spaying and neutering and about how to access those resources. 4. More resources need to be available to people who are in transition and no longer are able to care for their animals. 5. Pet abandonment laws need to be enforced. Almost all of the animals that I have encountered at the transfer station were not born there, they were abandoned. The mortality rate for kittens is extremely high. In conclusion, I urge you to vote against Bill 51. Starving cats is not the answer. It will cause animal suffering. Starving cats will be more prone to disease. Starving cats will lead to increased hunting of prey to survive. Criminalizing the feeding of cats will make criminals of the very people you should be working with to solve the problem of unhomed cats. Respectfully, 2 William Brown From: Kathy Buckovetz Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 6:43 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Do not support Bill 51 Dear Council Members, Funding inhumane government animal abuse by starving animals is not an option. Courts convict folks for starving animals. The pets at the transfer stations are mostly dumped pets who then breed. There are other options, like supportng the nonprofits to spay/neuter, vax, feed, manage colonies. They have proven to contain the population, but cannot prevent the continuous dumping of more cats. Your Starvation Model does not stop it either. The County could donate land to support a nonprofit to run a successful model of housing and adopting out cats, like done in Lanai and Kings Co, CA, where they are not roaming and bothering neighbors, birds, etc. Keiki and residents are traumatized by this proposal that tortures animals. You are sending a message that you believe it is an acceptable behavior to abuse animals. I am sure that is not your intent. Be responsible and lead by example. Work with your willing constituents to come up with a viable, humane alternative. Show our keiki how responsible problem solving benefits the County and aina. Work with us. With Aloha, �' r Katherine Buckovetz <=a Kailua Kona �` Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:57 AM To: Arlene Buklarewicz Cc. Council Testimony Subject: RE: Bill 51 From: Arlene Buklarewicz Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:29 AM Subject: Bill 51 Aloha, I am a constituent and longtime resident( 33 years) of the Big Island I am fully aware that we have a feral cat problem on the Big Island however I think that Bill 51 is misguided. Starvation, whether it be people, animals or any other sentient being is inhumane. I don't think the intention of this is cruelty but frankly it is. Please reconsider strategies and change or dismiss this bill in favor of a more compassionate method of dealing with this issue. appreciate your consideration in this matter. Arlene Buklarewicz PO Box 854 Volcano, Hawaii 96785 1 From: Andrea Buskirk Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:30 AM C7 • _y To: Council Testimony - T Subject: Bill 51 ' T' a� Aloha a Councilmembers, :3 I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3Ihile we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership, Andrea Buskirk Chin 1 From: Ben Catcho Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 4:23 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 r CD -4 ems. Testimony on Bill 51 — By Ben Catcho Jr. t.. Aloha mai kakou, My name is Ben Catcho Jr. I'm a Native Hawaiian educator and conservation outreach specialist. I'm here today to strongly support Bill 51 without the caretaker amendment. I want to start by saying this clearly: this bill is not about starving or killing animals. It's not about blame or cruelty. It's about choosing pono, about making hard decisions to protect what's native to this land and what's being lost. As a kanaka, I know what it feels like to live at the edge of extinction. For generations, we've fought to hold onto our language, our culture, and our practices. And now, we're watching our native species like the nene, face that same struggle to survive. To simply exist in the places they once called home. The opposition to this bill, those who push to keep feeding feral animals on county property, may think they're helping. But their actions are part of the reason we're here. When we feed invasive species, we invite imbalance. We crowd out the species that actually belong here. We make it harder for native birds to return, to thrive, to be seen by the next generation. And that's the tragedy: We are losing birds and what they represent: ancestral voices, cultural identity, and ecological memory. This bill is a step towards restoration. It's a shift away from unmanaged feeding and toward pono stewardship of our shared spaces, our parks, trails, cemeteries, and forests. It gives our communities the tools to say enough. We care about our 'aina, balance, and what makes Hawai'i truly Hawai'i. To those who say this bill lacks compassion, I say this: True compassion includes the land. It includes the native life that has nowhere else to go. It includes future generations who deserve to hear the call of native species, not just read about them in books. Being the last of your kind is a pain no one should have to carry, not our birds, not our culture, not our people. And if we're serious about stopping that cycle, then we have to act. Pass Bill 51 without the amendment. Let's feed the future, not the problem. Mahalo nui. Ben Catcho Jr Communications & Outreach Specialist American Bird Conservancy Email: bcatcho@abcbirds.org Text: 808-430-9065 1 N Americans Bird Conservancy Connect with Birds, Not Mosquitoes! Web: birdsnotmosquitoes.com I Instaeram: @birdsnotmosquitoes I Facebook: Birds, Not Mosquitoes Youtube: Birds, Not Mosquitoes From: Melissa C Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 5:29 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: in Opposition to Bill 51 Aloha, I am submitting testimony to adamantly oppose Bill 51. There are many ways to reduce the cat population besides starving them to death. This is cruel, inhumane and unnecessary. For one, Animal Control receives massive funding. They could allocate some of this money to provide free/low-cost spay and neuter programs. This, alone, would dramatically reduce the cat population. I have had feral cats wander onto my property and have trapped them but I have found myself having to drive all the way to Oceanview from Kalapana to have them fixed. This is absurd and the vast majority of people are not going to do this. There absolutely needs to be more free or low-cost clinics available to people islandwide. Humane Society will not spay or neuter feral cats, a regular vet visit wilt cost anywhere between $500- $700 and most free/low cost clinics have waiting times of 6 months or more. This needs to change and mandating animal control to use some of their funding to provide regular and ongoing free or low-cost spay and neuter clinics is the way to go. County Council could also provide more funding to clinics like Petfix who are doing an amazing job at spaying and neutering. Also, I urge you to approve island -wide managed TNVR (Trap/Neuter/Vaccinate/Return) programs. Mahalo for your time, c-, Melissa Cardwell `� �' From: Sent: To: Subject: August 4, 2025 Mike's Gmail Monday, August 4, 2025 7:05 PM Council Testimony Support Bill 51 Dear Members of the County Council: C- t I am writing to you in support of Hawaii County Bill 51 regarding the feeding of feral animals on county property. I do not support the amendment by council member Kimball to have certified cat feeders in this bill. It would completely undermine the entire bill. Endangered native Hawaiian wildlife species are being threatened every day with human induced elements which lead to their demise. Hawaii is known as the extinction capital of the world. It is time to take action to eliminate or at least reduce the threats they face every day. Bill 51 is not about opposing feral animals, it is not about a hatred toward cats, it is about reducing the threats to native birds and mammals that are highly affected by the by-product of feeding non- native mammals. Trap, Neuter and Release (TNR) has some benefit toward reducing the numbers of feral cats eventually; however, the release of these animals back into the wild is the danger that is not being controlled. Released cats, will still predate native and non-native birds. Released cats will still defecate in the wild and potentially spread toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease that has deadly affects on native birds and our highly endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals. This Bill does not prohibit feeding of feral cats and other animals, it merely makes it illegal to feed them on county property. When cats are fed on county property, it becomes a known area for people to release un-wanted pets and contribute to the growing number of animals living in the public lands. The increased number of animals adds to the demise of birds and the increased concentration of defecation adds to the increased risk of transmitting toxoplasmosis. One possible solution to the matter of feral cats, would be to trap, neuter and contain (TNC) the animals in an organized system of "cataviaries," "catios" or cat enclosures on private property ran by non-profit cat organizations. These enclosures could be maintained by individuals who care about the welfare of these cats. They could be fed inside the enclosures and, if provided with litter boxes, feces would be able to be collected and disposed of properly, away from areas which would leach the potential parasitic diseases into the environment. These enclosures would provide a sanctuary for feral animals where they can feed, and be protected from the dangers of traffic, dogs, and wanton trapping by individuals who have a vendetta against cats. This is a "win -win" solution, protecting native wildlife, while providing a safe -haven for feral cats. We must consider the native birds and wildlife of Hawaii as a precious resource that must be protected. The feral cats in Hawaii have spread out across the landscape and are even affecting native nesting seabirds all the way to the tops of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Evidence of the predation has been documented. Please vote in favor of Bill 51 and take the first step toward protection of our Endangered native wildlife. Thank you, Michael Carion Deputy Director, CA Department of Fish and Wildlife (Ret) Member, Hawaii Audubon Society Avid Birder Sent from my Whone From: Nicole Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 7:23 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Council members, My name is Nicole Carion and I am a retired wildlife biologist, cat lover and conservationist. I understand the complexities of feral cats and thank you for your ongoing efforts in trying to find a solutions. I know it is very difficult. I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers! This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. I am in complete support of trap, neuter and confine, adopt or provide sanctuary. I implore cat rescue organizations to set up structured networks of cat enclosures, cat sanctuaries, catios, and cataviaries on private properties where cats can be safe and their feces can be properly disposed of. I urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. Let's get serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks. We must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. ^; C-J _. ., Mahalo for your time and leadership. - r Nicole Carion t Resident of Hawaii County Sent from my iPhone = =' From: Sent: To: Gino Castagnetti Saturday, August 2, 2025 1:57 PM Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Aloha All, Please move forward and pass Bill 51, without any modifications that make it ineffective... such as letting a biased pro -feral cat organization regulate so called approved feeders or caregivers. The TNR programs do not work .... proof is the fact that the feral cat problem continues to worsen. The only way to effectively reduce the feral cat problem is the cutting of the cats and laws preventing their feeding. The feral cats have already caused enough damage and extinction to the native species and continue to carry disease harmful to humans. c� CD � Mahalo, = t Gene A. Castagnetti From: Karen Chan'' Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:54 AM To: Council Testimony CD-•: Subject: Testimony Supporting 51c `? Aloha a Councilmembers, nt = I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers! This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professional ized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Karen Chan From: Cori Chang U CD , Sent: Saturday, August 2, 2025 2:31 PM To: Council Testimony -z Subject: Strong Support for Bill 51 - Urgent Action to Protect Hawai'i's Native Species -- Aloha Council members,n= I'm writing to express my strong support for Bill 51, which proposes essential measures to protect Hawai`i's native wildlife and ecosystems from the escalating threat posed by feral cat populations. As someone deeply committed to the preservation of Hawaiian biodiversity, I believe this bill is a critical step toward safeguarding endangered species such as the `Ua`u (Hawaiian petrel), 'Alae `ula (Hawaiian moorhen), nene (Hawaiian goose), and the Hawaiian monk seal (`Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua). These species are not only ecologically vital but culturally significant, and they face increasing danger from predation and disease linked to unmanaged feral cat colonies. Feral cats are the primary vector for Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that has caused fatal infections in Hawaiian monk seats and threatens other native wildlife. The ecological damage is severe and ongoing. Bill 51's provision to restrict public feeding is urgently needed to reverse this trend. While humane methods have been attempted, they have not scaled effectively to meet the crisis. Trap - Neuter -Return (TNR) programs are often promoted as humane alternatives, they have not proven effective at significantly reducing feral cat populations. Studies show that unless over 70% of cats in a colony are sterilized and maintained, populations remain stable or even grow due to the vacuum effect, where new cats move into areas with available resources. In Hawaii, where colonies are widespread and difficult to monitor, this threshold is rarely met. TNR may reduce nuisance behaviors, but it does not address the urgent ecological threat to endangered species. I respectfully urge you to support and advance Bill 51 without any modifications. Hawai`i's unique biodiversity is irreplaceable, and our response must reflect the gravity of this moment. Mahalo in advance for your leadership and dedication to conservation. From: Nancy Charles -Parker Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 2:47 PMCD�- To: Council Testimony Cc. Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kimball, Heather; Kagiwada, Jennifer; Onishi, Dennis? =; Subject: bill 51 alternative to decrease feral cat population" • w dear council member and mayor alameida, �_n w -- • as a hawaii island tax payer i want to thankyou for serving our island. being a public servant is very stressful as i know after doing this for 33 years. • i am writing to you in support of a concentrated and serious effort for County Approval of island - wide Managed TNVR Trap Neuter Vaccinate Return programs. there has been much talk of this in the last 3 years but no action forward. • my animal lover friends are opposed to the Newly -revised and soon to be released Animal Control Ordnance that is expected to increase murder and starvation of feral cats. • i encourage County Council to invest BIG in Free Spay/Neuter offerings island -wide (like Petfix, Animal Oasis, Others), • And to support all the direct and indirectly related efforts needed to help stabilize the cat population and reduce it. • although it is not a quick fix, trapping and spaying feral cats is an excellent way to control and eventually decrease (thru attrition) the feral cat population on this island. • but money and manpower must be put into supporting non profit efforts to do this. or establish a county wide program to humanely fix and house ferals. please see the model of maui. • instead of making it illegal to feed cats. i encourage you to support and fund efforts to control the feral population. feeding empowers trapping, which eliminates one cat giving birth to multiple litters in one year. feeding permits us to trap and neuter. cessation of trapping leads to more kittens and adult cats. • please take the long view and a compassionate one, if you set up or support private groups with programs to neuter feral cats, in 5-10 years the population will decrease. • i am wilting to put my feet to my mouth and volunteer to help the county do this • thank you for voting against the passage of bill #51 or at least delaying it two years until the county has set up a humane society to deal with this issue. • thanks for your hard work to make this beautiful island a compassionate one. • warm regards, nancy charles-parker, tel: 720 520 5672, nancyinarabiaagmail com From: Will Chase `" o Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:39 AM= To: Council Testimony -<= Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 .. c .. �- Aloha Councilmembers, .� y> Q.. I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While I previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. RISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. I cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. I and the big island community urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent and purpose. If we are to take the purpose and intent of this bill serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear tine —feral animal feeding has NO PLACE on County property. I would like to share personal observations that I have seen with my eyes happening at the Keaau transfer station; I have seen it at other transfer station Mt. View, Volcano, but not just transfer stations at public parks as well. If any of the council member have used these location then you may have see the feral chickens, cat, and pigs hanging out around the the transfer station/parks. But Keaau was/is the worst 1 had seen with all three animals having inudating that location. I have seen people leaving cat food, water dishes, and little make shift houses for cats to stay in. Because of that it attracted the chickens and the pigs to that location. I have seen the pigs, cats, chickens drinking water from the community water fill spot located at the Keaau transfer station. I watch people fill up their house potable water from the spickets where these feral animals where just lapping up water overflow. Its not to much to imagine that the pigs have lapped up water directly from the spickets. I have seen animal feces by the water fill in keaau. Tons of cats waiting for people to feed them hiding in the bushes near by, along with the chickens and pigs who have become accustomed to people leaving cat food out. I know for a fact that the feral cat problem is island wide and that feral cats can be found on the slopes of Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea high up, to any where in the lower halves of the Island, we need to take action and this would be a proper step, please do not pass the amendment for a "Certifed Community Cat Caretaker" it defeats the purpose and intent of what we need as a community to combat this feral animals. Mahalo for your time in this matter. WR A County of Hawaii resident in Puna district. William M. Chase 2 From: Kristin Chiboucas Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:41 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: OPPOSE Bill 51 - —' � --C County Council, Please vote NO on Bill 51. w The primary objective of this bill is flawed. The council needs to be doing something about the cat overpopulation in a humane way. This bill would only grow the cat overpopulation exponentially in an inhumane way. It doesn't make any sense to pass this bill. It needs to be overhauled. You need the cats to be localized in specific areas with colony caretakers who feed the cats and are trusted by the cats. Then you need to support these people by ensuring they have the resources to get the cats fixed. By making it illegal, and even punishing those who do the feeding, and encouraging the cats to'disperse', what you will actually accomplish is: 1. Most cats will not disperse, they will begin to starve, they will become unhealthy, and they will spread disease. 2. If there is nobody taking care of colonies nobody will get the cats fixed. The population will grow out of control with nothing to slow the progress. 3. There will be cats everywhere! The friendly colony cats will become feral and distrusting of people, eat more birds, and beget more kittens. 4. Tourists and locals alike will be horrified seeing the many starving and sick cats everywhere. 5. Good samaritans who have created relationships with the cats at particular colonies will be distressed, forced to submit to committing animal cruelty or be punished. 6. Animal cruelty is not legal in Hawaii, and more importantly, is abhorrently immoral. The one thing this bill wilt successfully accomplish is to criminalize people who have compassion for other living beings. In order to have any chance of dealing with the cat overpopulation issue on this island, you WANT friendly cats who are concentrated in areas and are used to people. You want them to have people that they trust, the feeders, who can catch the cats and get them fixed, and then return them (otherwise, with no place to put them, why catch and fix them?). And the county really needs to be partners in this if there is any hope to manage the situation. This commitment needs to be part of a new bill. With regards, Kristin Chiboucas, Hilo � n Keaka Cho ,t CD From: Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:09 AM < - <, To: Council Testimony -- c� Subject: Testimony Opposing Resolution 140-25 Y 1 _ 77 Aloha a Councilmembers, --' CD - I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership, Ashley K Cho 1 Hokulani Chong C' From: �-" CD �= Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:34 PM To: Council Testimony "- Subject: Testimony - Bill 51 v, �ZD -s Aloha a Councilmembers,`, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of Liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Cathy Chong Hoku From: Susan Collins Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:07 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: I oppose Bill 51 I feel there needs to be more a of a plan regarding the training of volunteers designated to be allowed to feed cats. Sincerely, Susan Collins C c-, CDC C r- Sent from my Whone r �' w From: Linda Davidson Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:09 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Opposing Bill 51 Dear Council, I understand the need to reduce the feral cat population. The cause is human failure and I believe cats should not have to pay the price. These are domestic animals not mongoose, wild pigs, etc. TNR is making a huge difference. I believe you should penalize people who feed UNALTERED FERALS ONLY, they should be sentenced/required to put 100 hours of community service volunteering for a TNR non profit. They will witness and participate in this valuable lesson. A philosopher said "Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." Heaping more responsibility to on a grossly understaffed Animal Control Division is not logical; it's just passing a law that really has no teeth and will go nowhere. However, it does put on record that the council is "doing something about it". I believe select TNR non -profits should be the ones who should be allowed to sanction feeders who are actively trapping and spay/neutering existing cats and new kittens. Please rework Bill 51. Thank you for listening,' Linda Davidson' .. Y}�, a - From: Susan Dickeson Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:19 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Fwd: Opposition to Bill 51 Hello Council, I would like to express my extreme opposition to Bill 51 which would criminalize feeding of stray/ feral cat /dog populations. The Trap Neuter Release program that numerous non-profit and volunteer organizations follow in Hawaii and in other states has been proven to control the population of stray/feral animals. Veterinarians and animal behavior specialists agree with this approach. Criminalizing the feeding of neutered populations or animals that organizations are attemptingto catch in order to spay / neuter and/or find homes for will only enable the population to grow. Furthermore, it is extremely cruel to stop feeding in an environment that will cause the animal to suffer horrendous death. C"} � c- Please vote to Oppose Bill 51. p "" Thankyou. T,{ Respectfully, Susan Dickeson W %-n From: Sylvia Dolena Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 7:29 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: OPPOSE Bill 51 Draft 2--even with amendments We are asking you to vote NO on Bill 51. _= Most of the animal welfare organizations, (list is in the attached image) groups, non -profits artill_" opposing Bill 51 even with the Amendments. This is due to a LACK of TRUST of certain County agencies, including animal control. The burden of the gap in services, the delayed or NO responses, and the issue of pets being killed before the owner can get through to AC are part of the reasons for mistrust. The fact that dog attacks on humans, livestock and small animals still happen weekly and there is no plan or recourse except to take matters into their own hands, residents are frustrated, angry and cynical to say the least. TESTIMONY: We, the undersigned, submit this statement to the County Council regarding Bill 51 and to the Mayor for a potential Veto. As Animal Welfare organizations in the State of Hawaii, our mission is to provide services for the animals, to care for and save the lives of the many abandoned, stray, lost and owned pet species animals of this island. For some of us, our organizations began over 25 years ago of service and continue to this day. For others, the animal welfare issues are so monumental, they have formed organizations within the past 5 years to fill the growing needs. We have provided shelter, food, medical care, spay/neuter services, adoptions, fostering and much more in service to the residents and animals of this island. HEAR US NOW. OUR COLLECTIVE MISSIONS INCLUDE --SAVING LIVES, NOT KILLING HEALTHY ANIMALS. --PROTECTING ANIMALS FROM ABUSE AND CRUELTY --HUMANE POPULATION MANAGEMENT --FOSTERING, TRANSPORTING, ADOPTIONS and much more There is an animal crisis on this island with dog attacks, animal cruelty and abuse, criminal animal fighting and an enormous ABANDONMENT RATE. Many residents are facing financial crises and health issues which is a basis of abandonment. Many abandon their animals due to over -breeding and they have no resources to even take their animals to the free clinics. Others are allowing reckless breeding to occur. THIS IS A COMPLEX ISSUE. AND WE STAND FOR, SUPPORT AND PROMOTE HUMANE SOLUTIONS. THIS BILL 51 IS NOT THAT. WE STRONGLY REQUEST YOU, EACH COUNCIL MEMBER, AND THE MAYOR TO CONSIDER THE CONSEQUENCES OF PUTTING THIS BILL INTO LAW. As Mr. Runnells of Animal Control and Protection Agency stated, this Bitl will not solve the problem and it is unenforceable. Why would you STILL vote this Bill into LAW? --YOU NEED US. NO LONGER IGNORE US. WE VOTE. WE PAY TAXES AND WE PROVIDE SERVICES TO THIS ISLAND AND WITHOUT US, THE ISSUES WOULD BE 10 X WORSE. LET'S WORK TOGETHER TO SOLVE THIS ANIMAL CRISIS HUMANELY. Aloha Animal Alliance Abaykitties Action 4 Animals AdvoCats Aloha Animal Advocates Aloha Animal Oasis Big Island Cats Big Island Lost, Found, Stolen Pets Calvin &Susie Hawaii Animal Foundation Catopia Catsnip Hawaii Friends of the Menehune Animal Sanctuary Hawaii Animal Advocacy PUBLIC Hawaii Island Animal Advocates Hawaii Island Humane Society Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary KARES PetFix Popoki Puna Puppy Pueo Sanctuary Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary UNITED TO BRING CHANGE - HAWAII Volcano Cat Sanctuary National Or anizations: -Alley Cat Allies -Community Cats United -Animal Balance -No-Kill Advocacy Sylvia Dolena Owner, Pele Lani Farm LLC Owner, Winning Edge Women's Leadership Director, Puna Rising Entrepreneur Hub Co-founder, Aloha Animal Advocates, HI Domestic non-profit Director, Malama O'Puna. 501 c3 President, Aloha Lokahi Association, 501 c3 President, Kulia I Ka Nu'u Outreach Services Vice President, Love Those Dog Paws, 501 c3 Executive Coach, Hewlett-Packard Enterprises From: Douglas Vaughan Sent: Monday, July 28, 2025 11:33 AM To: Villegas, Rebecca Cc: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - Re: Feeding Feral Cats on County Property Aloha Council Member Villegas; We wish to add our voices to those who have opposed the bill passed last week regarding feeding of feral cats on county land. While we have heard arguments on both sides of this issue we cannot understand how not feeding them will accomplish anything but to further endanger our native birds. A hungry (starving) cat is clearly more likely to hunt than one with a full stomach. Our concern is that as it stands — even with amendments — this bill seems at best a gesture of appeasement to those who wish these cats were not here (alive), and at worst a first step in shifting public opinion toward legitimizing cruelty toward feral cats (which will never solve the problem, but which would create needless suffering for the cats). We surely have a feral cat problem on our island, but a humane solution must lie in the direction Aloha Animal Oasis is building toward by creating a safe enclosed sanctuary for these animals — maybe several — modeled, perhaps, on the one operating on Lanai. With that, TNR programs would have places to meaningfully release the fixed cats into. Mahalo for your consideration, C-' Doug Vaughan & Chris Culler Holualoa ` � — From: Nalani Dudoit Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:36 PM c To: Council Testimony Subject: Support Bill 51 � cw Testimony in Strong Support of Bill 51 Aloha, - I am writing in strong support of Bill 51, which prohibits the feeding of feral animals —including cats, pigs, goats, and chickens —on all County -owned or managed properties. This is a necessary and overdue step to protect our island's fragile ecosystems, native species, and public health. It simply does not make sense to feed feral cats when no one is taking responsibility for their behavior or growing population. These cats are not pets —they are unmanaged predators, and they are killing our native birds. Their numbers are increasing with no oversight or accountability, and the damage they are causing to our environment is heartbreaking. If people truly love these animals, then they should take them home, care for them, and create sanctuaries —not enable their spread by feeding them in public spaces and walking away. Feeding without stewardship is not compassion; it's neglect with consequences. As a Native Hawaiian, I carry the kuleana (responsibility) to protect our `aina, our people, our way of life, and especially our native wildlife. It hurts my heart to see our native animals losing their place in this world —often at the mercy of well-intentioned but misguided actions, and sometimes by outsiders who do not understand the balance of this land. That pain echoes the trauma felt by our people in many ways. This bill is about restoring balance. It supports public health, reduces property damage, and protects native species from predation and disease. Most importantly, it allows the County to uphold its duty to keep public spaces safe, clean, and ecologically responsible. Please pass Bill 51. Our islands, our wildlife, and our keiki deserve better. Mahalo for your time and consideration. Sharise Nalani Dudoit From: Sue Dungan Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 9:12 AM_ C-) c- To: Council Testimony 5 Subject: Testimony 3 - c` t = co -< - T1 t- Council Members & other decision makers, Dear cor. Bill 51 is inhumane and in direct conflict with the Aloha spirit. v, __. The first time I learned that the islands took care of their feral cats, I realized, this is what sets Hawaii apart from the rest of the US and probably much of the world. They care about all living beings and my heart was warmed to hear of such great love and care. It a big part of the reason we are so fond of the islands. It's not like anywhere else, it's special. The island and its people care about the land, their people & their animals. All of their animals. Cats have been on the islands since before the Queens & Kings of Hawaiian history, you can read about it in the history books. The cats are not the biggest threat to the Nene birds as research done by the Hawaii government has shown in the past. Killing and starving animals that could be cared for by willing individuals is not ethical or appropriate. What is appropriate, is donating some land for a sanctuary so they can be cared for in a specific location. This way there is somewhere to take them. Even better would be a location near where visitors stay in order for them to sustain the sanctuary with donations. Consider your actions carefully as you may not want your legacy to be known as cruel killers of small helpless animals who could be cared for by many willing volunteers & visitors. Thank you for reading & considering my thoughts. Sincerely, PJ Sue Dungan Sent from my Phone � n D From: Liam Ehrman=' Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:19 AM To: Council Testimony : CD Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 '7 { Aloha a Councilmembers, w I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers! This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. From: Kim Marie Ek Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:01 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Prohibition Against Feeding Cats at Public places Aloha, I am against the bill that prohibits the public from feeding abandoned cats at parks and public places. If the domesticated abandoned cats are not fed, they will starve to death which is animal cruelty...... Please listen to the public on this one. I heard that at the latest meeting which allowed public comments there was overwhelming support for not passing this bill, yet the public sentiments were ignored. c--) CD ` Sincerely, T Kim Marie Ek 2114 A Kaiwiki Road ` C- Hilo, Hawaii 96720 =� (808)896-2089 w I From: Elena S c-) Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 1:54 PM ^; CD To: Council Testimony sue= r Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 -sx � Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While weWeviously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, El ", C) From: Ted Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:08 PM <; To: Council Testimony CD Testimony Su �" � Y Supporting � Subject: PP g 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, N I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51, Draft 3, which seeks to prohibit feeding feral animals on County property but includes a harmful exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the bill%2Q06 intent and perpetuates the very problem it was meant to solve: the ecological and public health threats posed by feral cats. As someone who has witnessed firsthand the damage caused by feral cats, I am deeply frustrated by this self-defeating amendment. Feeding colonies on County land sustains invasive predators that kill native wildlife, spread toxoplasmosis, and degrade public spaces. Just this year, a n%4Qn%4Qgosling died from toxoplasmosis in Lili%A%Buokalani Gardens%24,Qa site plagued by daily cat feeding. How can the County claim to protect endangered species while sanctioning the very activity that harms them? The "certified feeder" provision is absurd. It creates a legal contradiction: banning public feeding while authorizing County - approved feeders to do the same thing. This exposes the County to liability under the Endangered Species Act, as feral cats continue to prey on protected wildlife. If the County endorses feeding, will Parks staff now be responsible for cleaning up cat feces in our parks? Hawai%A%Bi County Code already fines residents for failing to pick up pet waste%2QQwhy create a double standard for feral cats? This amendment also contradicts state conservation goals. The Hawai%A%Bi Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai%A%Bi Invasive Species Council oppose TNR and colony feeding, recognizing their harm to native ecosystems. Bill 51, in its original form, aligned with these priorities. Draft 3 abandons that responsibility. I urge the Council to remove this exemption. Feeding feral cats on public land is not compassionate%2*ot%2Q06 destructive. If individuals want to care for cats, they should do so on private property, not in spaces meant for people and native wildlife. Restore the original language of Bill 51 and prioritize Hawai%A%Bi%2Q®s endangered species over invasive predators. Mahalo for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Ted Elson .�•• y. l _•I •to From: Bonnie Evans Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 7:58 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Starving the cats!! I have lived on the Big Island for well over 30 years. I ing of these cats at Abay for many many years. The have witnessed the absolutely phenomenal caretak cats are happy, not hunting and the tourists love them!! There is no threat to the nene as I have witnessed them co mingling with these cats with no peril to them. Nature has a way of taking care of those instincts and all I have ever seen is a happy colony situation. When DLNR chose to stop feeding these cats at the Queens shops, many of my friends went down and scooped up as many as they possibly could and took them home to re establish a healthy cycle of feeding and loving them. To starve any animal is just plain CRUEL!! There is a working system in place and I, for one, would like to see this continue on as it WORKS!!! Mahalo, Bonnie Evans Waikoloa < �J �f > i From: Sidney Fleecs ` CD Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 4:11 AM s � c~! To: Council Testimony _ Subject: Bill 51 OPPOSITION- lr; Dear Council Members,. ~� 51, seeks to the feeding of f1 f'al and I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill which prohibit stray animals on county -owned property. As someone who works closely with humane animal organizations when visiting the Big Island —and who has family on Maui —I've witnessed firsthand the importance of responsible, compassionate care for these animals. I understand the challenges that feral populations pose, but this bill is not a humane or effective solution. This legislation risks penalizing the very people and groups who are trying to manage this issue in a responsible and evidence -based way. Dedicated caregivers and nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in controlling feral animal populations through proven methods like Trap —Neuter —Return —Manage (TNRM). Instead of supporting these efforts, Bill 51 threatens to drive them underground, creating more chaos and ultimately doing greater harm —to both the animals and the environment. Importantly, starving animals does not make them disappear —it makes them desperate. Without managed feeding and care, feral cats in particular are more likely to hunt and threaten native bird species, including endangered ones. This bill risks making an ecological problem worse, not better. I urge the Council to reject Bill 51 in its current form and instead work with the very organizations and individuals who have already demonstrated commitment and success in humane population control. Any policy must center on collaboration, education, and evidence —not punishment. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please stand with compassion, science, and your community by opposing this bill. Sincerely, Sidney Fleecs From: Susan Floyd Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:31 AM To• Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 I would like to add my thoughts to your review of bill 51. I'm a 73 year old resident of Volcano for the past 19 years, before that 20 years on Kauai. I love nature and animals are a big part of that. I believe God commanded us to care for the little ones, the children and the animals. I believe Nene are a part of those to be cared for, yet how can we kill one species to protect another. How about relocate the nene to higher ground? I don't have the answers but I pray you will find the compassionate ones. By the way, how about putting a moratorium on clear cutting forested land. Where I live the lots are being bought up by investor companies and cleared and built upon so fast. That's destroying habitat for many native (and non native) birds. Not to mention loosing our previous Ohia Lehua and other native plants. Thankyou for listening. Susan Floyd From: Corinne Garcia Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:17 AM To• Council Testimony Subject: Feeding of cats Sent from my iPhone To whom it may concern: "I this bill of the public from feeding the cats at the parks." am against prohibiting Many of these cats are domesticated abandoned cats. I, have friends who take these cats to veterinary & find new homes for them. Please don't pass this bill. Thank you so much! Sincerely' Mrs. C. Garcia From: Ikaika Cricket Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 8:43 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Starvation of Cats is cruel and inhumane Aloha from Maui the problem is not the cats, it's abusive people. think about it. You have not given this enough thought. it will come banc to you ten- fold and it's on you. Sincerely,' Ellen Garrison `� O C7 Waikoloa rincess � From: P � uy `,cry Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 8:26 AM To: Council Testimony -�= (Z) Subject: opposition to Bill 51 --- �� �,> —X 1 am a voter and a long time resident of the Island of Hawaii and am writing to express my vehemeg opposition to Bill 51. Starvation is inhumane and it does not work. I support the efforts of organizations like Aloha Animal Alliance as an effective and humane way to reduce and control animal populations. Please vote against Bill 51. Feeding bans do not work and are not scientifically supported. Leading animal welfare organizations like the Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and the National Animal Care and Control Association all oppose feeding bans. In fact, there isn't one example demonstrating the success of feeding bans as a method of population control. Feeding bans will not make the cats go away. The logic behind feeding bans is that if no one feeds free - roaming cats, the cats will go away. This rarely works because there may be more than one feeder, feeders will resist, enforcement is difficult and unpopular with caring citizens, and there are other sources of food like trash. Humane efforts to control the cat population are already in progress at Aloha Animal Alliance and are having a measurable impact. Planned efforts include large scale spay/neuter surgery events and networking with caretakers to manage the ongoing trapping and sterilization of community cats by providing free trap rentals and no cost spay/neuter surgery. As our TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) efforts have increased, we've already experienced measurable results. Feeding bans will discourage trap -neuter -return efforts, leading to MORE cats. These bans effectively prevent caregivers from being able to trap and sterilize the cats in their care, which means cats will continue to have new litters of kittens. Feeding bans are a waste of taxpayer dollars. Feeding bans punish compassionate caregivers, are difficult to enforce and direct resources away from programs that encourage and support spay/neuter efforts. Feeding Bans are Invasive. A feeding ban criminalizes the behavior of thousands of people who feed animals to humanely care for them. A sanctuary is not the answer for Big Island's cats. The Lana'i Cat Sanctuary costs an enormous amount of money per cat to run and the cat population on our island is much greater than that on Lanai. The cost alone makes this solution untenable. I beseech you to vote against the passage of Bill 51. Sincerely, Marcia Goldman-Manker Waikoloa Resident From: Arna Goldstein Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:10 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: bill that prohibits the public from feeding the supposedly feral cats at the parks. "I am against this bill of prohibiting the public from feeding the cats at the parks." It's not the fault of the cats that they end up being there at the park. If you pass this bill, the cats will starve to death. It's animal cruelty. Please don't pass this bill. Thank you. r �� 1, o r, Concerned Citizen' Arna Goldstein yam_. w :... w From: Janet Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 9:59 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Please do NOT pass Bill 51. As a resident of Hawai'i Island, I am strongly against the passing of Bill 51. To say that outlawing cats being fed on county property will protect Hawaiian fauna is simply not true. Cats will be hungrier than ever, and our wildlife will be in even more peril as they become the victims of starving cats. In addition, the trap and neuter programs will be curtailed, which is the only humane way to curb the proliferation of cats on our island. r� Respectfully, CD Janet Goodmanson PO Box 747 -� Kealakekua, HI 96750 Sent from my iPad" :=- 1 From•• Christin Greenland Sent:Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:17 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: oppose Bill 51 Dear Council members, I appreciate the amendments that were added to the bill at the last hearing, however, I still oppose Bill 51. TNR is practiced in many parts of the country and all around the world. It is the most humane and effective way to reduce the cat population. The return part is one of the most important aspects. of course, we would love to be able to rehome all the cats that we trap and neuter, but it's not realistic. When cats are relocated they will almost always try to travel back to where they came from. I recently took in an abandoned cat at the golf course subdivision in Volcano. I brought him home and about a week later he broke out of my catio. Twelve days later he was found back at the golf course which is 6 miles away. I appreciate that some of you are interested in the sanctuary option for Hawaii county. I think this would be a great addition to a TNRM program. If the county wants to go in that direction, sanctuaries need to be established before discussing any banning of feeding on county property. As I'm sure you realize, building sanctuaries will be very expensive for the county. I have a cat sanctuary of my own, and although the food costs are somewhat predictable, the veterinary costs are absolutely not predictable and they're extremely expensive. To enact a feeding ban before building sanctuaries or having anywhere for these cats to go is cruel and is putting the cart before the horse. TNRM is the county's best option at this point. I'm also concerned about who will decide if the pilot program is successful or not. Will this be left up to just one person to decide? It takes time for TNRM to work and the county needs to be prepared for that. I urge you to vote no on Bill 51. Thank you, r r C Christin Greenland 11-3923 11th StIL a Volcano, HI 96785:72- {� 1 V1 Bill Greenreu, CD te c From: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:36 PM Sent: To: Hustace, James CD Council Testimony Cc: �- Subject: Opposition to Bill 51 = r- ry >T w Aloha, I am taking the time to write today to express my vehement opposition to the adoption of Bill 51 by the Hawaii County Council. This bill is ill-conceived, based on bias, vitriol, and flawed science. While the feral cat population has been a problem and always will be an issue, the proposed solution does nothing to resolve the issue and, in fact, will only perpetuate an unnecessary burden on the Hawaii County Budget in the form of perpetual animal control and killing of animals. The solution to the abandoned pet problem has been long known, but consistently ignored by those with agendas that ignore science and data. Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) has been proven to be the most effective method for reducing the unwanted, abandoned pet and feral cat population. The county would be far better off investing in widespread free spay and neuter clinics, such as those offered by Pet Fix and others, than by perpetuating a killing machine that never ends. Mark my words, if the council passes Bill 51, you'll next be asked to fund increasingly large animal control and killing efforts. Those advocating widespread killing of forgotten, lost, and abandoned pets would be better off directing their efforts to removing the nene from parking lots, golf courses, and active agricultural areas, where they are in constant danger of death and maiming. Nene don't belong in the Queens Shops, yet they're still there. Why? Finally, let me make this clear in terms you'll understand, Mr. Hustace. Should you vote in favor of Bill 51, you will never receive my vote again in any election. I will go even further and actively and financially support any person opposing you in all subsequent elections you are in. William Greentree Waiki' i The information transmitted by this email is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed. This email may contain proprietary, business -confidential, and/or privileged material. if you are not the intended recipient of this message, be aware that any use, review, retransmission, distribution, reproduction or any action taken in reliance upon this message is strictly prohibited. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from all computers. From•• Jennifer Greimann Sent:Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:54 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill that prohibits the public from feeding the supposedly feral cats at the parks. I am against this bill of prohibiting the public from feeding the cats at the parks. i-D r; C_ Thankyou `.a �"` '— Jennifer Greimann .C7. 3 - W Sent from my Phone From: Myra Hammonds Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 10:29 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Please stop House Bill 51.... there are solutions Aloha County Council Members, First thank you for doing a great job in our community. I appreciate you dedication and hard work. All you do shows you care with your professional and expertise. I want to exress, there are other solutions to managing Community cats by a non-profit Aloha Animal Alliance. Their plan works by collaborative information and structure to "manage" further cycles of cats. We are not just feeding cats... We are trapping cats in volumes to end further breeding by trap neuter return (TNR). w c-� oc, Please stop House Bill 51. =~ Mahaloforyourtime. -� Have a great day'r_; Myra Hammonds 1 From: Alicia Hanta Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 6:52 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Aloha, I am a resident of east Honolulu and I personally do TNR ( trap - neuter- return) for the community cats many who have been DUMPED or abandoned by humans. I am using my own time and resources to do this and feeding the cats is a very important part of it. Basically I, and many other individuals and nonprofit rescues, are doing the city and county's job! It's a problem and the city does nothing! We all use our own resources to help these poor animals who didn't choose to be where they are. If we don't do this, the cat population grows. I certainly hope this bill doesn't pass, it's inhumane and I hate to think Hawaii is an inhumane system. I am a health care worker so I am needed here. But I don't want to live in a state that would pass such a bill. Please consider. Thank you, Alicia Hanta Kalama valley Sent with aloha from Alicia's Whone CO w Ln -- From: Cory Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 8:01 PM CD — Subject: comments on Bill 51 animals/ Cty Cncl Aug 6 -' J {.. comments on Bill 51, draft 3, re. animalsr for County Council, 9 AM, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 from Cory Harden It may be best to postpone this bill for now, so people who are working on a program for community cats have time to get the program working. I believe Aloha Animal Alliance, Department of Land and Natural Resources, and Councilmember Kimball have been working on a program for some time, one that includes trap -neuter - release (TNR) and also monitoring and data collection. After that program is running, we should have a clearer idea about what kind of legislation is needed, and the community may be more supportive. Community support is vital. A review of control techniques for cats found that "community engagement played a pivotal role in the application and success of cat population control techniques". A systematic literature review was conducted to evaluate if community engagement influences the effectiveness of control techniques in managing cat populations, excluding culling... community engagement played a pivotal role in the application and success of cat population control techniques. Adoption and education are particularly influential, with adoption facilitating rehoming tame cats, and education fostering community awareness about free -roaming and feral cats. Community Engagement and the Effectiveness of Free -Roaming Cat Control Techniques: A Systematic Review, Feb 2, 2024, {�tt 7s../_/I?rn.<<::..n.: ?.L.. !.�rra.:....! m.lac.Y/critichs.F'.M.�.....�,�8,�4..�..:�.`�/ The review also found that community education was "influential". That education should cover issues such as the impacts of feral cats preying on native species and carrying disease; feral cats leading difficult lives since they are vulnerable to disease and injuries; and the problem of people seeing cats being fed and then thinking their cat will be taken care of if they release it. And we need to keep in mind issues with other stray and feral animals such chickens, dogs, and pigs. Mahalo for your work on this difficult issue. Hawaiian Humane Society People for animals. Animals Cor people. Date: August 5, 2025 To: Chair Holeka Goro Inaba ` r, Vice Chair Dennis "Fresh" Inishi'r` and Members of the Hawaii County Council Submitted By: Steph Kendrick, Director of Community Engagement Hawaiian Humane Society, 808-356-2217 RE: Testimony in support of Bill 51, Draft 3, Relating to Animals Wednesday, Aug. 6, 9 a.m., Hawaii County Building Aloha Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Inishi and Council Members. On behalf of the Hawaiian Humane Society, thank you for considering our support for Bill 51, Draft 3, which amends Chapter 4, Article 3 of the Hawaii County Code 1983 (2016 edition, as amended) relating to animals. The Hawaiian Humane Society is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization in the state and while our primary focus is on our Oahu community, we are proud to support the work of compassionate organizations that are helping animals across our islands. Hawaiian Humane recognizes that Free -Roaming cats in Hawaii are at risk of illness, injury and abuse; that they can negatively impact wildlife and the environment; and that they can pose a nuisance for humans in their places of work and residence. We want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of the organizations on Hawaii Island who, like Hawaiian Humane on Oahu, are working toward a day when all cats have a safe place to live and proper care. To address the population of cats who are already living outdoors, we support trap - neuter -return -manage (TNRM) as a humane approach to reducing their numbers over time. Government support of TNRM harnesses the compassion of dedicated volunteers who are willing to spend their own time and resources to address a problem they did not create because they care about Free -Roaming cats. M6`ili`ili Campus Kosasa Family Campus at Ho`opili (808) 356-2200 1 HawaiianHumane.org 2700 Wai`alae Avenue 91-1945 Fort Weaver Road The Hawaiian Humane Society is dedicated to promoting the Honolulu, HI 96826 `Ewa Beach, HI 96706 human -animal bond and the humane treatment of all animals. Hawaiian Humane Society People For animals. Animals For people. If the county feels it necessary to regulate the practice of TNRM on land under its jurisdiction, we support the approach outlined in Bill 51, Draft 3, as it emphasizes proper training, following best practices and credentialing caregivers. To ensure the success of this new approach, we would also recommend a commitment by the county to fund spay/neuter for volunteers who are engaged in TNRM, as well as rigorous enforcement of pet desertion laws. Abandonment is a primary contributor to the Free -Roaming cat population. Mahalo for your consideration of our support for Bill 51, Draft 3. We urge you to embrace the humane management of Free -Roaming cats. ma,ili`ili Campus Kosasa Family Campus at Ho`opili (808) 356-2200 1 HawaiianHumane.org 2700 Wai'alae Avenue 91-1945 Fort Weaver Road The Hawaiian Humane Society is dedicated to promoting the Honolulu, HI 96826 'Ewa Beach, HI 96706 human -animal bond and the humane treatment of all animals. From: Sent: To: Subject: To whom it may concern, Margie Heart Sunday, August 3, 2025 8:34 AM Council Testimony Stop bill 51 As a resident of Maui for 40 years I beg you to stop this inhumane tactic to rid the island of feral cats. How about we put birth control in their food and let the population dwindle that way. There had to be other ways to deal with this. Starvation is inhumane and cruel. Please listen to ALL OF THE PEOPLE WHO OPPOSED this bill. You are supposed to represent us!! Thank you for your time, Margie Heart ram, _ r Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone c W- r. +J -< 1 From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha a Councilmembers, Asia Helfrich Monday, August 4, 2025 10:58 AM Council Testimony Testimony Supporting 51 CD C-) CZ N -- I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. it codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sent from my iPhone COUNTY OF �IAV A July 20", 2025 Dear Council Chair Inaba, I strongly encourage you to vote NO for Bill 51. There is a much better path to addressing this complex issue and this bill is not the solution. Criminalizing the only volunteers who are actively trying to address the cat colony situation is not the right answer. I believe we as a community can do better. My intention is to share some insights and recommendations based on my experience how best to approach what Bill 51 attempts to address. I am a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point with a Bachelor of Science, and also have earned a Master of Science Degree specializing in Army Operations and National Security. I am a retired U.S. Army Special Operations Lieutenant Colonel with numerous combat deployments to Afghanistan across 24 years of active military service. I have taught at the Department of State Foreign Service Institute and worked with USAID in Africa. I have extensive training in areas that include advanced negotiations and cross-cultural communications. I do not say these things to be braggadocio but rather to provide a bona fides, of sorts. Full disclosure, I am a published Hawaii endemic bird photographer, and volunteer with island bird counts and rat trap maintenance activities. I am also a volunteer cat colony caretaker and participate in Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate - Return -Manage (TNVRM) clinics. Bill 51's ultimate intent is to protect the Hawaii native birds but at the peril of other animals on the island. While this bill does not single out a specific animal its direct aim is just the continuation of a narrative to inhumanely affect cat colonies on the island. The metrics from the July 8tn committee meeting are clear. There were 251 opposed written and oral testimonies to 64 supporting. Seven out of eight county council members voted to support this bill with the eighth council member no voting over an enforceability concern. While it is not unprecedented for a single representative to go against the majority of their constituents, it is for seven county council members to vote against their respective district's constituent majority. It is commendable that the influential members of the birding community lobbied successfully behind closed doors as evident during initial voting, the shortfall of this action has caught the entire island's cat caretaker community by surprise. This legislation should be paused. The closed -door meetings and being shut out of conversations regarding this bill have created a sense of distrust in the legislative process. I believe this is an opportunity that can be capitalized on to build the momentum for a joint solution that both the bird and cat communities are amicable to. I will not reemphasize the many points that council members, county officials and both sides of the table attested to during the July 91n meeting. The bill falls short in addressing many second and third order effects that it will cause. It will only result in both sides sharpening their pitchforks more and digging in their heels even deeper. We need to implement a whole -of community approach to addressing this problem set. I think everyone will agree that there is something that needs to be done both to protect the native birds as well as address the cat colonies on the island. Nobody wants to see an animal be treated inhumanely but the passion and ambition to one's cause can be blinding. Last year on Oahu an unleashed dog killed a newborn monk seal pup. Not widely publicized, a few years ago a pack of wild dogs killed over 20 nene goslings in a single day here on a refuge. I have rescued a kitten that received 75% burns from hot oil thrown on it at a graduation party. Island breeders have dumped purebred cats at the colony I caretake due to undesirable characteristics. I have been spoken to about evidence that hunters have shot palila on Mauna Kea to prevent losing access to the ungulate hunting land. I have found a dog hanging from a tree out hiking with my wife. We do not have an animal problem; we have a people problem. No animal asked for the state we have put them in. This situation divides the island community which I believe warrants direct action. I advise recommending to the mayor that he authorize a task force chaired by his chief of staff, or other neutral party. The only way this works is if every stakeholder is permitted professional representation at the table. This task force needs to be void of stovepipes and have flat communications, transparent to all parties. This will help build the foundation for follow-on cooperative work. The minimum deliverables of this task force should be a memorandum of understanding signed by all stakeholders supplemented with a 1, 5, and 10-year strategic plan. Expectations. These need to be managed. Results and solutions are not going to come overnight. A more pragmatic approach will lead to a better outcome. Organizations and personnel will change overtime, but the memorandum of agreement and strategic documents will keep everyone on azimuth, giving way together working towards that unified goal. Accountability. Resources to enforce are limited but mechanisms need to be implemented to enable enforcement when able. Consider license requirements, chipping and neutering requirements going forward for all dogs and cats that are brought to the island. Require all island breeders to apply for licenses and renew registrations annually. Colony caretakers have access to chip readers. When a new cat shows up at their colony it can be reported as well as efforts made to return the cat safely to its owner. Metrics and Lessons Learned. The U.S. Army does not do everything well but one of its greatest achievements is what it accomplishes through its after -action review processes and lessons learned. In other words, it reviews and capitalizes on successes and learns what is not working and makes course corrections where required. It is all about the metrics and data. What are they telling us? What do we need to sustain and improve? Keeping these accurate records and soliciting feedback from the experts in the field implementing the strategy is crucial. It is incumbent on the leaders to make the adjustments to the plan where necessary. The birding community does a great job at tracking data on bird populations on the island. Implement a county training program that certifies colony caretakers. These caretakers currently self -fund food, medicine, and veterinary visits. They are absolutely committed to the health and welfare of their colonies. Implement standardized reporting requirements from both the bird and cat communities. See which populations are growing and which are diminishing and leverage this data to further refine the plan. Media and Public Information. The media arm of each organization needs to be leveraged in support of this task force. Platforms needs to address animals in humane ways that support the strategic objectives. We need to ask the influential social media accounts to stop vilifying animals in support of their cause. Solidarity is paramount. I have seen various organizational displays that utilize photoshopped photos in their education material. We need to ask these managers to stop this practice. I have been told by individuals who have seen my bird photography that they were not aware of endemic birds on the island. I have provided many people who were unaware with the information on the free/low-cost animal clinics. Information is power; let's share each other's operations and clinics across all platforms. Many people are unaware that some of the pet non -profits are partnered with airlines and sanctuaries on the mainland and are always looking for travelers to transport animals at no cost to them. The Kona Cat Cafe has been extremely successful in adopting kittens from colonies to be kept indoors, and many of the customers are cruise ship travelers who have their new pet flow back to the mainland. These are just some of the tools available that need to be shared throughout the community. The public needs to be kept informed of the on -going efforts and resources available to them. Budgeting and Sharing of Resources. Strategic implementation in the budgeting cycle will undoubtedly take time. Funds are always tight and nobody likes to cede resources. In 2022, Hawaii U.S. Senator Schatz secured more than $14 million dollars to protect threatened and endangered native birds from extinction. Let's explore ways to share future monies with the animal non -profits on the island because what they are accomplishing is directly positively impacting native bird populations. Volunteers are always in short supply. Let's put our differences aside and help each other. Forging relationships will go a long way to achieving goals. Animal non -profits on the island have continued to look for suitable land to build sanctuaries and those coastal cat colonies could be prioritized for relocation. Sanctuaries alone are not the answer, just as TNVRM clinics alone are not the answer. But both are very important parts of the multi -faceted solution to humanely reduce cat colony populations on the island. The extent of their operations are often limited by support and availability of resources. Disinformation will have you believe that spay and neutering does not work. Of course it doesn't work if the program is not given a chance. Just a few short months ago the council passed a resolution awarding Aloha Animal Alliance's TNR Program a $50,000 grant. Do not let that effort be in vain. Results based solutions take time. I welcome you to visit any of the island's non-profit animal organizations when they are conducting a TNR clinic. See first-hand what is being done. Meet the dedicated volunteers working hard on just one part of the plan to mitigate the colony populations. Volunteers who do not like the community cats in the situation they are in no more than you do. I ask that you give it a chance. Bill 51 is NOT the answer. Sincerely, From: Linnea Heu c ; Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:56 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Support for Bill 51 / Request to rewrite or remove amendment —' Aloha, " My name is Linnea Heu, I live in Panaewa with my `ohana and I am in strong support of Bill 51 i t`s 77 original form. However, I attended the last county council meeting on July 23, and am skeptical about the proposed amendment to allow "certified community cat caretakers." This seems to be a loophole that would essentially make Bill 51 ineffective from the start. I would ask that you rewrite this amendment to specify the pilot program area or remove the amendment before passing the bill. Because if the pilot program does not work, then there should be nowhere on county property where cat feeding is allowed. I have a 7 month old daughter. When I was pregnant, I was trying to stay active and would go on walks with my husband at Lili`uokalani Park. It's such a beautiful and well -maintained park, but the sheer number of feral cats was concerning. I've seen them pooping in the park on multiple occasions, and my doctor had given strict instructions not to empty litter boxes while I was pregnant to avoid contact with cat feces. As you are probably aware, this is because of the danger that toxoplasmosis poses to the fetus. It got me thinking about how many other expecting moms, and families in general, enjoy Lili`uokalani Park and how many of us are impacted by this cat colony. Now, times that by the number of cat colonies on County properties across the island and it's truly unacceptable. I understand that those who are feeding these cats are doing so from a place of compassion. I also understand that it's not the fault of the cats that they are here. However, trap -neuter -release (TNR) is not a solution. Feeding cats like this inadvertently feeds other wildlife and invasive predators. It is not humane and even PETA does not support this as an acceptable management strategy. Furthermore, there is zero accountability on the part of these "cat caretakers" for the detriment that the cats cause. I own a dog, I'm responsible for picking up his poop, keeping him on leash in public, and I would be charged if he harmed or killed endangered native species. . At this point, I believe that the council has all of the facts you need to make an informed decision on the topic. Please pass Bill 51 and protect our families and native wildlife. Thank you for your time and careful consideration. Sincerely, Linnea Heu c� From: Kelly High Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:18 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 70 Aloha a Councilmembers, UJ �n I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sent from my iPhone From: SUSAN HOMER Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 11:29 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Cats There's no way around it — attempting to reduce the island's cat population through starvation is inhumane. Help us protect Hawai'i Island's cats by testifying in opposition to this bill." Maui Humane Society said in 2020 - applies to us now. Please do the right thing and say NO to this inhumane & disgusting bill!! There is always a better way to solve something other than to harm, hurt, or kill. TNR works & is the only humane way to control the overpopulation of feral cats! Please do the right thing!! Visitors would be outraged to know how this state treats animals! Please allow managed TNR colonies to help lower cat population, Susan Kissel Sent from my Whone From: Larry Honma CD o Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 12:14 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51-, -ti I DO NOT SUPPORT BILL 51 ! What the County is doing is inhumane. It makes me think like wtwt's I on to the people in Gaza. Starving and dying. I used to feed at Old Airport, and as I heard in a testimony by a County Park Official saying that there is no change in the amount of cats that are there I think the cat population there is getting smaller all because of the TNR program,adoption by park users, and of course death. I was a volunteer with the Friends for Fitness Organization for 7 years at the Makaeo Path. I even had a garden, where I had a colony of around 15 cats. All of them were neutered so there were no new babies. That colony is down to maybe 4-5. There are areas in the front where there were lots of cats but hardly any now. I understand that people are concerned about cats going after the birds, but not feeding them is not going to solve the problem, in fact I think that will stop them . By the way, that's what cats do, they hunt. My cats do that once in a while and they get fed twice a day. Those cats can also be Therapeutic. Early 20001 suffered from anxiety. Went to see a Psychologist, and Psychiatrist for help. There were days where I really needed to talk to someone, but no one was available. Being that I had met people as a volunteer I would go to the park hoping that there would be someone I know. Unfortunately there were none so I turned to the cats for company. I wouldn't be surprised if there are people like me that are at the park for the same reason today. This is why I have cats today, most from the Park. I am asking the council members to reconsider this move and work with the different organizations to come up with a better plan to continue feeding these cats. They weren't asked to be there, how did they get there ? I say it all starts with the humans who do not Spay or Neuter their animals and dump them. Thankyou Larry Honma From: Braxton Igne Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:36 AM CD r c:: To: Council Testimony C7_ rL Subject: Testimony Supporting Bill 51 Aloha e Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter - Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Braxton Igne Sent from my iPhone From: Darleen lida Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:26 AM To• Council Testimony Subject: Bill of Prohibiting the Public to Feed Cats at Parks I am against this bill of prohibiting the public from feeding the cats at the parks. I understand that many of these cats are domesticated and abandoned by their former owners. If the public is unable to feed the cats, many will starve and die. Thank you very much! Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:53 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: I am very opposed to Bill 51, please do not allow it to pass! This testimony is to voice my opposition to Bill 51 to the County Council and for the Mayor to veto this bill. The feral cats in our community are dropped by humans at parks because there are no county sponsored organizations that take cats to be re -homed unless they were in -door cats. They will be scheduled to be KILLED, because there is no other place for them. At present if these fedrat cats are trapped, spayed and neutered, their lifespan is about five years if they are fed by organizations in the community. At this time this is the best solution to this problem in respect to population control. We need to work together to solve this animal crisis as human beings who care about helpless animals. Mahalo for your time and consideration. This message was sent by Doreen Ikeno From: Jared Ishida Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:28 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Cats at parks Hello I would like to advocate for a good friend of mine who enjoys caring for the abandoned cats at the park. She is a very kind and generous woman who loves cats and wants to see the animals cared for. Whatever becomes of the bill I hope that she will be pleased to know that the future for abandoned cats will be a good one. Thank you. Sent from my iPhone ?, CD i UJ From: LeeAnn Ishihara Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:00 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: feeding cats @ the parks Aloha, I am against the bill prohibiting the public to feed cats at the park. These cats are domesticated, not feral cats. They were abandoned by their owners. I know some of the people who conscientiously feed them every day. They actively try and get them fixed if they are not, and take them to the vet when they are not well. They also try and find good homes for them. They pay for the hundreds of pounds of cat food monthly. They genuinely care about the welfare of these cats. Please look into ways to solve this problem rather than cruelly allowing these cats to starve to death. There must be a better solution! N � From: Christa Jacinto "= i., C Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:35 PM " To: Council Testimony _<; Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, 4► =_= I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Regards, 1 Christa Jacinto From: Jen Jo Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 4:41 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Stop Bill 51 Dear Honorable Council Members, I am testifying in opposition of Bill 51 regarding the feeding of feral cats on County property. As a fellow rescue mom of many cats, this bill is simply inhumane. Starving any animal is not an ethical solution to our cat over population. These cats did not choose to be homeless. They were DUMPED on County property and forced to live in the wild when they really deserve a loving home. Please don't punish them for our communities lack of respect and care for them. They do not deserve an even harder life than they already have living on the streets. I humbly ask that you do not pass this bill, and instead find ways to trap and release these cats to cull the population That is a more humane and effective way to control our pet population. growth. Please do not kill innocent lives that already feel unloved and unwanted by our society. Thank you, C7 Jennifer Jo y7 NJ From: Laura Johnson CD Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 4:02 PM r. , c7_ To: Council Testimony -+ Subject: Bill 51 Hawaii County Council Members, coy_ ve __ Thank you for listening. I am strongly opposed to Bill 51. It's been proven throughout the U.S. and many other countries that the best way to reduce the numbers of community cats is though TNRM programs. Cats are reduced through attrition and sometimes euthanized when trapped for neutering/spaying if they are very old/sick, etc. I work at these clinics and see the hard work, and VERY long hours of MANY volunteers so that as many cats can be "fixed" as possible here. One cannot trap cats unless one is feeding cats - they are not just suddenly going to show up and wander into a trap -it doesn't happen. I trap cats successfully by first ensuring that they are being fed prior to trapping. Also, if you are going to allow cats to starve, they will go after birds. I hate to think of that happening. Mongoose are just as much of a threat to endanged nene here, even more so, than cats. They also carry toxoplasmosis - as do other ferral animals here, so let's not blame all of that on the cat population. I care deeply about that issue too, as I volunteer with the Marine Mammal Center and do not want to see seals succumb to that disease. Again, by TNRM programs, numbers go down and these other species benefit. However, seals, dolphin, and other sea creatures get sick WAY more often here due to the other bacteria, viruses, chemicals, heavy metals, and human SEWAGE that are all found in our near shore waters than because of toxo. Right now, avian flu is a threat to sea animals and could wipe out monk seals, as that virus is starting to show up in our waters. What this County should be doing is ASSISTING these private groups to trap and fix more cats, not Less. We need money and resources! The other thing you should be doing is working to educate people about dumping pets or unwanted animals -even going further, perhaps and making that a more serious crime. We have colonies that have entirely been fixed and their numbers decline, only to have people dump more unwanted animals there. Please take the humane route and vote no on this Bill, and then work with the citizen organizations here to ensure that their efforts can be supported and continued! When so many people are opposed to this bill, how can any of you, in good conscience, not listen to your constituents? You are supposed to be working for us. Respectfully, Laura Johnson Kailua Kona 1 From: Maria Kaaua r-; Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 8:06 PM ' cD To: Council Testimony ,- Cc: Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka € -, Subject: Bill 51 - a veterinarian opinion Aloha Council members, to __ My name is Maria Jose and I have been a veterinarian in Kona for the past 26 years. During this time, I have%veloped my own love -hate relationship with the feral cats. Without a doubt the "cats versus native species" has been an ongoing problem for many years. Very few have been willing to directly address this issue and I commend the Council for taking on such a difficult and unpopular topic. However, the people of this island need better guidance than what Bill 51 sets forth. Bill 51 does not provide a humane option for the cats and inadvertently suggests that starving animals is an acceptable method of population control. On an island that already struggles with animal abuse and neglect issues, I feel that this sets a bad precedent by the County for the public. Bill 51 unfortunately prohibits people from doing what they feel is morally right for animals in need - without providing a viable alternative for the animals nor the people. Although the bill does not prevent feeding at sites other than County property, the reality is that a large portion of the cat colonies are currently situated on County land. The locations of the colonies were not chosen by those feeding the cats - they exist where the animals were originally dumped by members of our own communities. While it is easy to become angry with those people - it is important to acknowledge that most of the "dumpers" did what they did because there has been and continues to be a lack of resource and options for unwanted animals here. The people of the Big Island have been literally left to their own devices for decades - especially when it comes to cats. I urge the Council to reconsider Bill 51. 1 recommend working with the cat groups to create an alternative option that can preserve and protect our native species but yet take a humane approach to other animals. Many of these groups have been working tirelessly for many years to provide resources for the cats. They are dedicated individuals who with the right guidance could become an asset to the County for feral cat control. Please consider working with the people of this community to solve this problem. Now, more than ever, the people need to feel that our leaders possess the ability to listen and facilitate a path that is acceptable to both sides. Sincerely, Maria Jose DVM West Hawaii Animal Urgent Care 73-5619 Kauhola St Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 808-895-8676 C7 From: Bliss Kaneshiro '= Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:11 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 110 Councilmembers,+ am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. Though I support this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —I do not support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers" which undermines the purpose of the bill. am an Obstetrician Gynecologist - at each new prenatal visit, I teach my patients about things they should avoid during pregnancy including avoiding cat feces, we talk about having someone else clean the litterbox if they have a cat at home. Cat feces can contain toxoplasmosis which causes a devastating infection in a developing fetus. The maintenance of feral cat colonies in areas enjoyed by the public poses a public health risk to moms and families. Pregnant moms often come to public spaces to play with their young children and we want our keiki to be able to run, explore and play in these places without fear of infectious disease. I am not anti -cat, my family has 3 cats at home who we adopted from the humane society. They have brought joy to my children. But I believe that animals must be cared for in a responsible way, away that does not pose a risk to human health and protects native species. Thank you for your consideration, Bliss Kaneshiro MD, MPH Bliss Kaneshiro MD, MPH, FACOG Professor, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine Chief, Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Queens Medical Center Pronouns: she/her I acknowledge that the `aina which the University of Hawaii occupies is part of the larger territory recognized by Indigenous Hawaiians as their ancestral grandmother, Papahanaumoku. I recognize that her majesty Queen Lili`uokalani yielded the Hawaiian Kingdom and these territories under duress and protest to the United States to avoid the bloodshed of her people. I further recognize that Hawaii remains an illegally occupied state of America. As a settler, I seek to support the varied strategies that the Indigenous peoples of Hawaii are using to protect their land and their communities, and I commit to dedicating time and resources to working in solidarity. From: Etta Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:46 PM To: Council Testimony; Kimball, Heather, Alameda, Christian (Kimo) Subject: vote AGAINST Bill 51 that supports animal abuse t— Aloha, y4 � As a state employee and constituent, I'm writing to you in the hopes of convincing you to vote against Bill 51, criminalizingthe care of your island -wide community ban on caringfor cats [that are generally dumped by people who don't follow other rules, regulations and laws that currently exist.] I've been lucky to live on the Big Island for 20 years. It cannot be denied that your leadership hasn't made a dent in the community cat population. Therefore, why would I as a constituent trust that your choice/vote on this one is a good idea if you haven't been able to help solve the problem in decades..? What is different this time? What will I often find that people who would trust other experts in a field wouldn't do the same with TNRM (Trap/Neuter/Return/Management). Do you tell your mechanic, accountant or tech support what they need to do to fix a problem? We live on an island. Animal rescuers are already taking on this huge issue. Why on earth would you not use their expertise and FREE LABOR to solve this problem for good? We live on an island. Cat's aren't walking here. We need to sterilize and manage their populations. As you already know, Spain is making a lot of positive changes in their country regarding community cats. As leaders, sometimes we need to try something new ... what you're doing now isn't working. Etta Karth 808-990-0921 1 From: Leilyn Kauihou Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:11 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Feeding cats at public parks I am AGAINST the bill banning the feeding of cats at public parks. There are people working very hard to spay/neuter to keep the population in check and these cats are innocents. Thanks You Sent from my iPhone From: Kay Bee r Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:09 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, w I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While w6'previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. 1 We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. From: jlkinkona CD M Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:00 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 regarding feeding stray animals on County owned or maintained {upty CD � {�T Dear Council Members,CD a After listening to the testimonies at your first reading of this bill, I realized that many people testifying havent lived that long on Hawai'i island and that many don't really know much about Hilo especially some of you council members. I grew up in Hilo, and lived there until the late 1980s but still visited often because my mom and brother lived there. I am focusing on Hilo and specifically the Queen Liliuokalani Park because this seems to be the contentious spot that may have caused the creation of Bill 51 due to both the Hawaii State bird, the Nene goose and stray cats co-habitating there. Back in the 1950s, that whole area, encompassing the park, the golf course, up to the Civic Auditorium, Banyan Drive, ice pond, SuiSan fish market, etc was known as Waiakea Town. That town was a thriving, bustling little town. The Waiakea Elementary School and the Waiakea Intermediate Schools were both located where the golf course now sits. Across the highway were our food shops, KTA, Sure Save, a Fire Station, Mrs Ushijima's barber shop, etc. The only hotel on Banyan Drive was the Naniloa Hotel. Across from the park and the ice house was a Hawaii Electric power plant. There were also residential homes all over and around that park. During that time, No Nene Geese lived in the area. After Waiakea Town was demolished by the tsunami in 1960, businesses were relocated but people continued to live in the area until they were slowly relocated to safer areas. Again, there were no Nene living in the area during the 1960s, the 1970s and the 1980s. Waiakea Town and specifically Liliuokalani Park was not a known habitat for Nene. The only area that we knew of on the East side the island where Nene existed was in the Volcano just at the park boundary on your way to Punalu'u. There was a sign cautioning drivers to watch for Nene crossing the Highway. Another area that was known for Nene was in Pu'uanahulu on the West side of the island. A sign was also placed there near the Golf Course cautioning drivers about crossing Nene. The presence of Nene down in Leleiwi and Liliuokalani park over the last 20 or 25 years should make us all question why the Nene have relocated to these areas where cats are being dumped. Could it be that their former homes are being over taken by the worst invasive species on the planet, the human being? Think about it as you continue to demonize cats as being "invasive." Cats are merely trying to survive in their environment. Unlike the invasive human being, they dont drive cars, they don't build highways, they dont build homes in forested areas. All of these invasive human habits are what is causing our Nene to FLEE to other areas. If you are serious about saving the Nene give them a Sunctuary and stop criminalizing our compassionate cat feeders. Bill 51 sucks and belongs in the opala pile. Mahalo, Josephine Keliipio Kailua Kona 1 From: J Kern Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:43 AM `- - C= To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Opposing 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Joe Kern Sent from my Whone O C`J From: lanikahi Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:43 AM To• Council Testimony •�,. Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 v _ Aloha a Councilmembers, w w I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 51, Draft 3, which would allow "certified community cat caretakers" to feed and maintain feral cat colonies on County property. This amendment completely undermines the original intent of the bill, which was to protect our public spaces, native wildlife, and public health by prohibiting the feeding of feral animals. As someone who is allergic to cats, I have personally experienced the negative impacts of unmanaged feral cat colonies. A neighbor in my area feeds large numbers of feral cats, and these invasive predators frequently invade my yard, making it difficult for me to enjoy my own property. This is not fair to me or to others who simply want clean, safe public spaces free from the hazards posed by feral cats. The science is clear: feeding feral cats sustains their populations, encourages more abandonment, and directly threatens endangered native species like the nene. Just this year, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis in Lili'uokalani Gardens, a known feeding site for feral cats. How can the County justify sanctioning the very activity that led to this preventable death? This amendment also creates a dangerous legal contradiction. If the County authorizes feeding feral cats on public land, it becomes complicit in the harm these animals cause to protected species under the Endangered Species Act. Additionally, why should Parks and Recreation staff now be responsible for cleaning up after these "county -managed" colonies? Hawai'i County already fines residents for not picking up pet waste, yet this amendment would allow sanctioned feeders to leave behind food and feces in our parks. This is not about animal cruelty or starvation. It's about responsibility. If people want to care for cats, they should do so on their own property, not force the rest of us to deal with the consequences. I urge you to reject Draft 3 and restore the original language of Bill 51. Our native species, public health, and community spaces deserve better. Mahalo for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Janice Kerr lanikahi@outlook.com Sent from my iPad From: Jean Kirkeleit Davis 3 CD cD Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:49 AM n To: Council Testimony y Subject: objection to Bill 51 Feeding Ban c �— X: CD I VERY strongly object to Bill 51 Feeding Ban for the following reasons. I live in Lake Forest, .. IL 60045. However, I have friends living in Hilo, and I visit often. Feeding bans do not work and are not scientifically supported. Leading animal welfare organizations Like the Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and the National Animal Care and Control Association all oppose feeding bans. In fact there isn't one example demonstrating the success of feeding bans as a method of population control Feeding bans will not make the cats go away. The logic behind feeding bans is that if no one feeds free - roaming cats, the cats will go away. This rarely works because there may be more than one feeder, feeders will resist, enforcement is difficult and unpopular with caring citizens, and there are other sources of food like trash. Humane efforts to control the cat population are already in progress at Aloha Animal Alliance and are having a measurable impact. Planned efforts include large scale spay/neuter surgery events and networking with caretakers to manage the ongoing trapping and sterilization of community cats by providing free trap rentals and no cost spay/neuter surgery. As our TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) efforts have increased, we've already experienced measurable results. Feeding bans will discourage trap -neuter -return efforts, leading to MORE cats. These bans effectively prevent caregivers from being able to trap and sterilize the cats in their care, which means cats will continue to have new litters of kittens. Feeding bans are a waste of taxpayer dollars. Feeding bans punish compassionate caregivers, are difficult to enforce and direct resources away from programs that encourage and support spay/neuter efforts. Feeding Bans are Invasive. A feeding ban criminalizes the behavior of thousands of people who feed animals to humanely care for them. A sanctuary is not the answer for Big Island's cats. Lana'i Cat Sanctuary estimates that it_costs._$1 OOO per cat per_year to operate its facility. Big Island has an estimate of at least 40,000 free -roaming cats who will live an average lifespan of 8 years. Jean ,lean Kirk c/cit-Da vis SS Kc1mscott Way, (Init 10,5 Lake Forest, IL 6-oo- S" %irkcicitda visg�jmai%com From: Nickole Kloeber Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 8:35 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 This is disgusting and inhumane!!! I am against Bill 51. It is wrong!!!!! Nickole kloeberCD c ra -- From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha Dear Council Members, Ann Kobsa Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:40 AM Council Testimony Testimony supporting unamended Bill 51 I am writing to support Bill 51, which aims to protect native wildlife and human health by prohibiting the feeding of feral animals on County of Hawai'i lands. This is crucial and much -overdue legislation, as toxoplasmosis carried by cats has caused disease and death in monk seals, and fecal bacteria causes illness in sea turtles and is detrimental to coral reef ecosystems. Toxoplasmosis is also a health risk to people who play in or otherwise interact with sand and dirt contaminated with cat feces in our parks. Feral cats prey on endangered birds, including our beloved nene. I do not approve of the amendment that allows certain people to be certified to feed the feral animals. There should be no feeding of these animals --we should instead be focused on eliminating the feral animals from our public lands, for the health of the land, the wildlife and the people. C-1 c; Mahalo for considering my input! ' f Ann Kobsa, =� Biologist/Farmer - Puna, Hawai'i-V- w From: S Koge Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:24 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill re prohibiting feeding of feral cats at County parks Dear County Council, Please vote against this bill. Not all of those cats are feral, some are abandoned house cats, who would starve if not fed by well meaning animal lovers. Please find another way. Thank you. _ Susan Koge `. a c Sent from my iPhone t+.l Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:03 AM To: maryrose rainbowfriends.org Cc: Council Testimony Subject: RE: Testimony regarding bill 51 From: maryrose rainbowfriends.org Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:55 AM Subject: Fw: Testimony regarding bill 51 August 5, 2025 Aloha, honorable members of the County Council, We stand by our previous testimony of July 21, 2025 Thankyou, Mary Rose Krijgsman Founder/ President Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary maryno e�rain ow --friends org 808-494-8700 mobile phone number From: maryrose rainbowfriends.org Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 11:51 AM Subject: Testimony regarding bill 51 1 From Mary Rose Krijgsman Founder and President Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary m_arwosag a nbo_wfrienda.org 808-494-8700 July21, 2015 Aloha Chair Inaba, Vice Chair Onishi, and Members of the Hawaii County Council, Thank you for the opportunity to testify on Bill 51. 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 more 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. If we are serious about reducing free -roaming animal populations and protecting our communities, we need a coordinated plan that focuses on prevention: spay/ neuter, community education, and support for proven management programs - not criminalizing compassion. 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 - all the components needed to reduce populations overtime, not just move the problem around. Designated feeding stations, not put in areas sensitive to wildlife. This pilot program is a well thought through program replicated from successful programs throughout different parts of the world. It is organized and implemented by caring and responsible people around the Island, who all have gone through a training program, who will be well identified in the field and who will know what they are doing. 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. Bill 51 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. 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, and let us embrace our partnership in continuing to implement this pilot program. Please vote for the mutually agreed upon pilot program, Thank you for your time and consideration, Sincerely, Mary Rose Krijgsman mart' _� ainbowfriands_.Qrg Sabina Ludwig ljgallaher57_@.gmail corm Laurette Martel -King m_art.eI i n . grail com Linda Brooks nha_w_a_i. a_li_v_e.c_om Gardenia Nisperos gardeniani _par--a.@g_m-ail..cpm Robert Mufalli mail rainbowfriend .-cg From: David Kumagai Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:15 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Feeding Feral Cats Dear Sir, I am against the bill prohibiting feeding feral cats in county parks. I agree that cats should not live in the parks but the bill does not solve this core issue. There are other methods to deal with the cats such as catching them in traps for removal. Thank you. c� J' David K c w� LA./ From: Barbara Kurgan Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:43 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Feeding Cats Dear Council Members, r113 Please do not prohibit the public to feed the cats at the parks. These cats are domesticated, not feral cats. For whatever reasons, they were abandoned by their owners. -� It's not the fault of the cats that they end up being there at the park. They are innocent, and trying to survive like the rest of us. If you pass this bill, the cats will starve to death. `} It would be far more humane to spade and neuter them so the problem will not increase. W Or to get an organization to foster them and eventually find a loving home. 0- Please don't pass this WILL BKOK Studio Barbara Kurgan 917-224-7122 BKOK@bkurgan com 1 N v, O,--, From: K S Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 1:12 PM- To: Council Testimony =_ CD Subject: Bill 51 Testimony r--- 77 My name is Kurt Shanaman and 1 am a retired registered nurse. 00 _-- 1 want to voice my STRONG opposition to Bill 51 relating to feeding of animals on county property. This bill is not a solution to controlling the problem of overpopulation of cats. It is incredibly short-sighted, and seriously flawed. It is important to get facts into the conversation but hard to do in three minutes but there has been much misinformation about cats for a long time. The passage of this bill will criminalize anyone who feeds stray cats. There are numerous TNR (trap -neuter- release volunteers and programs in effect to control the homeless and abandoned cats on Hawaii island. It would be better if the county would put the effort into "TNR" instead of starvation. Without TNR, the uncontrolled breeding will really create a worsening problem with overpopulation. Cats will generate more offspring faster than they will die from starvation. These individuals are dedicated people and organizations who work to protect animals who have originally been dumped and abandoned by their owners. It is not the animals that are the problem. 1 would support creating severe legal penalties for those who abandon these unfortunate pets instead criminalizing people who support, protect, and oversee the care of them. Lets pass a law that people who wantonly abandon any animal shall be guilty of a class three felony. studied Biology at the University of Hawaii and Chaminade and also hold a BS in Nursing, and was upset as some testimony was flawed and incorrect. The DLNR has its priorities wrong. The greatest risk to Nene now is AVIAN MALARIA as this is endemic now to the island. Here in Volcano, 1 used to listen to the Apapane sing as many as 15 years ago - now they are gone at this 4000' altitude due to mosquitos which carry Avian Malaria. This was confirmed to me by USGS biologists at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. ***Here is a study from the "American Bird Conservancy" New Study Identifies Sources of Mortality for Iconic Hawaiian Goose Study Constitutes First Systematic Investigation of Causes of Death in Nene - 1 American Bird Conservancy *** https://abcbirds.org/news/new-study-identifies-sources-of-mortality-for-iconic- hawaiian-goose/ *Of 300 birds examined, causes of death were found to be as follows: Emaciation (24%), Trauma and disease (23% each), Poisoning (4%), and Miscellaneous (2%), with the remainder unknown. Gosling carcasses were found most frequently (45%), followed by adults (38%), immatures (15%), and birds of unknown age. For adult birds, trauma (38%) caused by human -related factors such as vehicle impacts and predation by introduced mammals (e.g., mongooses, dogs) was the leading cause of mortality. As far as the Nene eggs, those are prayed upon by Mongoose primarily and rats secondary. Cats don't eat eggs. They don't prey on young Nene as the mothers are strong fighters and could kill a cat. Cats are wary predators and mostly prey on rats and mice and also prey on doves because doves are terrestrial birds meaning they spend most of their time on the ground and are easily caught. It is very rare for a cat to capture any of our indigenous birds like I'iwi or Apapane as they spend time in flight and in the trees and don't nest or spend time on the ground. As an RN with a specialty in infection control, 1 can attest to the disease, Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular coccidian parasite that can infect virtually all species of warm-blooded animals, including people and is mostly used as a scare tactic that people with an agenda use to terrorize the uninformed. It is found in most humans also and to us it is medically considered harmless unless you are severely 1mmunocompromised or pregnant. There are medical treatments that "CURE" and prevent the illness for all, human and animal alike. The good news is that your cat is unlikely to transmit this micro-organism to you. A study in the British Medical Journal concluded that contact with cats was not a major risk factor for toxoplasma infection. 2 So, for what it's worth, these are documented proofs that anyone can research from the National Institutes for health(NIH), American Bird Conservancy, Alley Cat Allies, etc. Please, this will cause irreparable harm to these animals if faced with starvation and suffering due to this bill passing into law. Mahalo, Kurt Shanaman Teresa Evangelista (808)226-8443 Volcano, HI 96785 https://Pmc.ncbi.nim.nih-gov/articles/PMC11148961 / https://abcbirds.org/news/new-study-identifies-sources-of-mortality-for-iconic- hawaiian-goose/ https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/cats-and-your-family/cats-and- toxoplasmosis 3 From: Nolan Laramore N cD Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 5:41 PM -� To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 ✓a _. r _ Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. From: Reed Larsen Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 2:47 PM _ To: Council Testimony` -+= Subject: Public Testimony Re: Bill 51 to Prohibit Feeding Cats on County Property I - Aloha, YJ My written testimony submitted here is in support of Hawaii voting to pass Bill 51 to make it law. I am sick and tired of the cat_ -ladies, most of whom are most likely mentally ill, feeding all of these feral cats at multiple places along the county road in my residential subdivision. After dark when the cats are done eating then the feral pigs come out and eat the rest then they go and continue tearing up my yard and other yards looking for more food. These feral cats & pigs trespass and poop mostly during the night on our lawns, gardens etc. and the cats stalk and kill birds in our yards during the day (I have videos). These feral cats poops carry a disease called toxoplasmosis which causes negative health effects in other animals and humans for which there is NO known cure. Who the hell do these nut jobs think they are to put the health of untold thousands of people in jeopardy including myself (a senior citizen), my family and my many grandchildren who live nearby and visit me regularly and enjoy playing outside on my Kona property? My HOA has ordered the local cat lady to cease and desist these feedings but she still refuses to comply years later and she goes around my subdivision fabricating heinous lies against me to retaliate against me for trying to get my HOA and the police to get her to stop. She also feeds these feral cats every day on the county road at the entrance to Calvary Community Church and drivers are sometimes having to dodge cats running around there. This is an accident waiting to happen! These cat ladies need to get a life and stop putting the rest of us in danger of real health & safety risks! My grandson comes a couple times each month to mow my lawn which is very large and takes at least an hour and a half to mow the front and back yards. These feral cats love to poop on my lawn almost daily. When the lawn mower runs over these cat poops it throws the pulverized poop and smell into the face of my grandson or myself forcing us to be exposed to the toxoplasmosis disease that these feral cat feces leave on our properties. How is it possible for these cat people to have such misguided compassion for these feral cats but obviously don't give a damn about this constant nuisance and exposure to health risks of many humans on the privacy of our own property? There is something very wrong with that way of thinking! The Hawaii Dept. of Health website states clearly, Do NOT feed feral cats! It is way past time to stop this insanity by FINALLY stopping these cat people who are causing the problems once and for all! This is a HUGE Health & Safety issue which if not corrected could even result in lawsuits. Please Do NOT cave to the pressure of these mentally ill cat ladies who are protesting against Bill 51. Please vote Bill 51 into Law and give us back peaceful control of our own properties and communities! Sincerely, Reed Larsen From: Stephanie Leal Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 7:40 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: OPPOSE BILL 51 - 801 SIGNATURE OPPOSITIONS change.org My petitions Membership 4 Search Hawaii County Council Must Not Legalize Animal Cruelty W Copy link I ® View live / Edit Home Share your petition Connect to decision makers Ask supporters for help U 2,234 petition views 801 1 { 170 petition shares Supporters T 34 promoters 1 From: Gretchen Lee Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2025 3:44 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Oppose Bill 51 I am in opposition of criminalizing those helping animals. Can't we find solutions other than starving cats??? This is cruel on so many levels. Gretchen Lee Kailua Kona C- Sent from Yahoo Mail for Whone -X" W _.. From: Sent: To: Gary Lenowitz Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:36 AM Council Testimony I am against the bill to prohibit the public from feeding cats at the park! Thank you very much! Sent from my Wad From: Laura Leonberger Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 9:48 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Opposition to Bill 51 Aloha, My name is Laura Leonberger and I reside in District 9. 1 am writing in opposition to Bill 51 which bans the feeding of cats on county land. Subjecting any animal to a horrible, painful death by starvation is not the way to control the population. There is no example demonstrating the success of feeding bans as a method of population control. We can all agree that there are too many cats and that reducing their numbers is a common goal for everyone. But taking the easy way out and inhumanely killing them is not the answer. There are other solutions! The large scale TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) efforts by the Aloha Animal Alliance have had a significant impact on cat populations with measurable results. I urge you to vote "No" on Bill 51 and allow groups the opportunity to address this issue in a humane and compassionate manner. Respectfully submitted, c-� j . Laura Leonberger o �- Sent from my iPad C t.n __ From: Lianne M Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:14 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony on Bill 51 Aloha. I am a concerned citizen in County District 6 writing today to testify AGAINST Bill 51. I agree we face a feral animal population problem, but the vague "county -approved" feeding amendment reeks of a bureaucratic empty promise. If this bill is to become a useful law, it needs to accommodate real world action and well-rounded solutions. With the weight of our county's voice, supporting - instead of debilitating - the people and organizations performing TNRM and EDUCATING our citizens will bring about the necessary long term results we seek. You, our council members, can greatly amplify their efforts! Community engagement is key to solving this problem. Our county government should focus on setting better standards in our community, instead of unintentionally being a bad role model. Mahalo for your leadership, and for taking valuable time to read my testimony. c s W From: Mari Victoria Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 5:25 AM To: Council Testimony C A-D Subject: Proposed Amendments to Bill no. 51 IC Good [morning/aftemoon/evening], Council Members, co w Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. I'm here to respectfully advocate for the continued feeding of stray and community cats within our neighborhoods. Stray cats are not nuisances by choice — many have been abandoned, lost, or born into outdoor colonies through no fault of their own. For them, consistent feeding is not just about food — it's about survival. When we deny them this basic necessity, we contribute to needless suffering. Feeding these cats is not what causes -overpopulation — neglect and lack of spay/neuter access do. In fact, most responsible feeders also work to trap, neuter, and return (TNR) cats, which is a proven and humane method to control colony size, reduce nuisance behaviors, and improve community health outcomes. Eliminating feeding efforts would not eliminate the cats. It would only lead to sick, starving animals that are more likely to roam, dig through trash, and spread disease — impacting both animal and public health. Feeding creates stability. It allows caregivers to monitor colonies, spot illnesses, and coordinate veterinary care when needed. Let us be a city known for compassionate, responsible action — not one that turns its back on the vulnerable. I urge the Council to support and protect the efforts of those who feed and care for community cats. Our humanity is reflected in how we treat the most defenseless among us. Thank you. MCayetano From: Sent: To: Subject: Dear Council members, C Mack Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:22 AM Council Testimony I oppose bill 51 I appreciate the amendments that were added to the bill at the last hearing, however, I still oppose Bill 51. TNR is practiced in many parts of the country and all around the world. It is the most humane and effective way to reduce the cat population. The return part is one of the most important aspects. Please support TNRM of these county cats, and give it enough time for us all to see results. Thank you, Rob Mack `-=-2 11-3923 11th St=- Volcano, HI 96785 - 1 From: David Mangel Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 6:46 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Aloha: A bad plan is no better than what we currently have. It is worse in some ways. Can the Council not find a solution that respects life and is practical without the inherent punishment incorporated into this bill. VOTE NO ON BILL 51. Mahalo, David A Mangel (808)640-2510CD Sent from my iPhone r= -� c--: From: JOHN MANUEL ! CD Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 8:31 PM > To: Council Testimony a Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously sL*orted this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, 1 John Manini Manuel IV Sent from my iPhone From: Vandy Martin Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 5:20 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bi1151 Pis push for spay amd creating cat sanctuary like on Lanai. Pis don't make it illegal to feed strays. Pis It's better to euthanize than to starve. Sent from my iPhone From: rmcollies Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:02 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Feeding cats at the parks/transfer stations Hello, I am against this bill of prohibiting the public from feeding the cats at the parks/transfer stations. Some of these cats are domesticated, not feral. This bill is animal cruelty! Please come up with a better bill. Thank you n c a Rogers McCullum Sent from my iPhone- _,..i C_. - ;J ,} r, . 2 From: Kelli Uderitz Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 6:38 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Oppose bill 51 Aloha, I am writing to ask you to please oppose Bill 51.Our community cats deserve to be cared for. Please show compassion for the animals that need our help, and allow them to be fed and fixed. So many people in our community are invested in the well being of our cats and spend much of their time and energy seeing that they are maintained. Please show compassion in your decision regarding this bill. Aloha, Kelli Medeiros Get Outlook for iOS `�' From: Leslie M _ Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 6:23 PM To: Alameda, Christian (Kimo); wiliam.brilhante@hawaiicounty.gov; Kimball, Heather; Kagiwada, Jennifer; Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; govmatt.kanealii- kleinfelder@hawaiicounty.gov, Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka; Hustace, James; Victorine, Clifford; Council Testimony Subject: Hello Everyone, Fwd: Opposition to Bill 051 We are writing to oppose Bill 51 that states there will be no feeding of cats on County land. cruel and does not address the cause of unwanted animals. We oppose criminalizing people who try to manage and feed the stray, feral cat population. r7 3 1 1ws islust Apparently some of you have voted "NO" on two grants for Spay and Neuter programs which makes no sense. Unfortunately too many people dump their animals and too many do not spay and neuter, so more unwanted animals are created. You need to be doing something to help mitigate the stray/feral homeless cat population, not criminalize people trying to do something about it. Please find other solutions such as trapping, spay/neuter, relocation or adoption and help the organizations and people who are kind enough to try to help to do something besides starve animals to death. We are looking to you to find humane solutions, not inhumane slow deaths for sick, stray, abandoned and dumped animals that are already traumatized enough. In this day when politicians will literally go to the ends of the earth and fight tooth and nail for illegal immigrants, especially if they are criminals, we expect you to care at least that much about animals in need and not penalize those trying to help them. Further, we will be looking for other candidates in the future elections to vote for, since you are focusing your efforts on treating defenseless animals cruelly instead of doing something about the ever growing traffic on the Panaewa stretch, installing badly needed traffic lights on Hwy 130 (NOT ROUNDABOUTS), addressing the need for modern sewage treatment plants, trying to rescind/repeal or change the impending septic tank coversion law that requires homeowners to re-route waste water from one hole in the ground to another hole in the ground for approximately $40,000, not to mention the crime and lack of prosecution of criminals. We also need help with subdivision association management, keeping associations from going awry with spening roads monies on multiple other projects, and help maintaining our subdivision's roads that are open to and well -used by the general public and county buses. Please focus your efforts on the big problems and do not pass this bill that will harm defenseless animals and criminalize those trying to help them. Thank you, James & Leslie Miles Leah Miller � From: "' o c-) Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:19 PM_ To: Council Testimony's —'- Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3.oWhile we previously supported this bill in its original intent -prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property -we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land -the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens -a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders -effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land -including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line -feral animal feeding has no place on County property. As a resident of Kauai I have seen the benefits of banning cat feeding on county property first hand. Mahalo for your time and leadership. 1 Leah Miller (she/her) 253-376-9492 From•• meredith miller -, Sent:Tuesday, August 5, 2025 12:59 AM CD c To: Council Testimony = = c Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 < Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing to express my strong opposition to Draft 3 of Bill 51, which would allow "certified community caC" aretakers" to feed and maintain feral cat colonies on County property. This amendment completely undermines the original intent of the bill, which was to protect our native wildlife and public spaces from the harmful impacts of feral animal feeding. As someone who has witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by feral cats, I cannot support a policy that actively enables their continued presence on public land. Just last year, I watched in frustration as a colony of cats roamed freely through a protected wetland area, preying on endangered seabird chicks. These are the same wetlands where our community has spent decades restoring native habitat. How can we justify spending millions on conservation, only to turn around and sanction the very predators destroying our efforts? The "certified feeder" provision is not just illogical, it's legally reckless. By authorizing feeding, the County is effectively endorsing the harm these cats cause to endangered species like the nene. This creates serious liability under the Endangered Species Act. It also sends a dangerous message that dumping pets on public land is acceptable. Hawaii County already fines residents for not cleaning up after their dogs. Why would we create a special exemption for cat feeders to leave behind feces, food waste, and attract more invasive predators? Parks staff shouldn't be forced to clean up after colonies that the County is now approving. This isn't about cruelty or starvation. It's about responsibility. If individuals want to care for cats, they should do so on private property, not in our parks and beaches where native species are struggling to survive. I urge you to remove this harmful amendment and restore Bill 51 to its original, science -based purpose: protecting Hawai`i's wildlife and public lands. Mahalo for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Lee Miller Sent from my iPad From: meredith miller Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 12:51 AM ram, To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 ✓`� — `_± Aloha a Councilmembers, --;; I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously swport`ed-this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot *port the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers! This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Meredith Miller From: Lori Sue Montgomery Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 9:11 AM To: Council Testimony Dear county of Hawaii Please don't loose your aloha for animals and do not pass the bill 51. This is outrageous and so sad to make cats suffer more than they are. Please I beg you not to pass this bill Sincerely c- n Lorraine Montgomery Q W From: Ijmoorel Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 12:20 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 To the Council: I would like to say I am emphatically opposed to Bill 51. 1 have lived in the Puna district for 42 years, and I have long been involved with cat rescue. I believe the county should be working with cat feeders by creating a well -supported spay and neuter program. Starvation is cruel, doesn't work, and will lead to diseased and suffering animals. It is time to recognize that cat feeders are a resource, not a hindrance. Change the government's combative attitude and work together with us as partners, not adversaries. Sincerely, a rJ Linda Moore :,Z r t,n -- w From: Lynn Morgenroth N Q c- c c... Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 1:42 PM �" To: Council Testimony a Subject: I oppose bill 51 As a long standing resident and tax payer on the big Island I am vehemently opposed to the prtgosOd $ill 51. understand wanting to preserve the island's native species, however starving thousands of cats and condemning them to the cruelest of deaths from lack of food and water is not the answer. There are dedicated caring individuals that spend their own money and time to rescue, trap, neuter, release and adopt these cats to keep them from disturbing the native species. Most of these cats were once family pets and they have been tossed out by despicable humans. It is not their fault they are homeless. It is not their fault they are hungry. Let the humane, loving and caring folks on the island continue to care for these cats. Show compassion for these defenseless creatures of God. It would not be in the nature of the island to treat animals this cruelly and continue to think of itself as a paradise. Please consider alternatives other than passing this bill. As it stands this bill is a death sentence to these cats. I have been a resident for many years I live in Waikoloa. I am sending this as my testimony that I am opposed to this bill. Please do the right thing and do not pass this bill there has to be another way, a better way, a humane way. Other Islands have found other ways to handle this issue humanely, reach out to them, listen to the hundreds of concerned animal lovers and the community feeders and come up with a better way. Please consider the County Approving an island -wide Managed TNVR Trap Neuter Vaccinate Return programs. Spend the resources to invest in Free Spay/Neuter offerings island -wide (like Petfix, Animal Oasis, Others), and all the direct and indirectly related efforts needed to help stabilize the cat population and reduce it over time. Mass starvation is not the answer, watching cats starve to death is not the answer. Please do not let these animals die from starvation do the humane thing the human thing and vote no on this bill. Thankyou foryour consideration. Lynn Morgenroth Waikoloa village 925-989-6300 From: C Nadalin Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:36 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Against Bill 51 I am writing to you because I am against Bill 51. These cats did not ask to be feral or stray. We humans bought them at the pet store or breeder and decided we didn't want them amore or for whatever reason the animals where let go and left on the street to fend themselves. It's not fair to them and people like my self TNR (Trap Neuter and Relase) them and feed them where we trapped them. If you help found us people who feed them, the cats would not attack animals. They will not be looking for food if they were all fed. However, you see it otherwise. You think this Bill 51 will solve the problem. Honestly, it won't. How about looking at countries like France or Denmark? Maybe you can learn a thing or two from them. Like France has banned pet shops. Against Bill 51!!! r' CD am Thankyou Caroline Nadalin �ry -74 �V� r From: Linda Nagamine Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:43 AM To: Council Testimony; LINAGAM@YAHOO.COM Subject: Feeding of cats at public parks I am against the bill to stop the feeding of cats at public parks. Most of these cats are domesticated abandoned by their owners and if not fed would starve to death. To stop feeding them in my eyes would be cruelty to animals. CDC Tj� From: Nadine Nakashima Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 7:05 AM To:• Council Testimony Subject: Feeding of cats Sent from my iPhone I am against this bill of prohibiting the public to feed the cats at the parks. I am a feeder of the cats at various locations in Liliuokalani Park for 6 years now. These cats are domesticated, not feral cats. For whatever reason, they are abandoned by their owners. It's not the fault of the cats that they end up being there at the park. If you pass this bill, the cats will starve to death! CD o� This is the same as not feeding your pets. It's animal cruelty!_ Please don't pass this bill. Nadine Nakashima k t__, From: Sent: To: Subject: To whom it may concern, CeCe Nasland Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:36 AM Council Testimony Cat bill input I am against this bill of prohibiting the public to feed the cats at the parks. These cats are domesticated, not feral cats. For whatever reasons, they are abandoned by their owners. It's not the fault of the cats that they end up being there at the park. If you pass this bill, the cats will starve to death. This is the same as starving your own pets! It's animal cruelty. Please don't pass this bill. Cecile Nasland Ainaloa resident n `t CD Get BlueMail for Android CD From: Keala Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 4:05 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting Bill 51 with amendments Aloha a Councilmembers, While I support the passage of bill 51 in its previous form, I am in strong opposition to the current draft of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 11 do not support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." The need to protect our native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination caused by these feral colonies is greater than ever, and allowing for some feedings to continue will do nothing to solve the problem. I do not support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. I urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. C_- c—, Mahalo for your time and leadership. c= 'O wau no me ka ha'aha'a, - -�= o Kealanohea Nichols -n �. Ho'ouna'ia ma ka'u iPona, a kala mai i na kiko hewa y'' From: Sandra Lim Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:52 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Ban on feeding cats Good afternoon: I am not in favor of banningthe public from feedingthe cats in public parks. Thank you for your time. Sandra Nii t-� c r-; Sent from Yahoo Mail for Whorle — .- -r #- w� .. C) From: Sent: To: Subject: August 5, 2025 To whom it may concern: Kathy Nikolas Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:56 AM Council Testimony Homeless cats Aloha, Im writing to you because I am concerned about the homeless cats on our island. I think we need to be able to feed the cats and continue spaying and neutering these poor animals that have been left off because people don't take care of their animals. If we do not feed the cats they will resort to eating more or our birds on the island and that will be devastating. So I am against this bill of prohibiting the public from feeding the cats at the park. Thank you so much, CD Kathy Nikolas 1 From: Carol Noblit Sent: Thursday, July 31, 2025 6:21 AM To: Kierkiewicz, Ashley, Council Testimony Subject: Re: Oppose Bill 51 Dear Councilwoman Kierkiewicz, I am contactingyou again to provide my opposition to Bill 51. Starving cats is not an acceptable solution. Trap, Neuter, Return and Manage has been proven by many national animal organizations, including Alley Cat Allies, to reduce the number of cats. It has worked for me in PA and I am successfully doing that here in Hawaii as well. Cats at county properties are usually dumped, not feral, so the public needs support and information to stop that practice. I understand that Lisa Lane Cardin, Aloha Animal Alliance, is working with the county on responsible feeding. Please oppose Bill 51 and continue to work with Aloha Animal Alliance to foster responsible feeding and public education. Bill 51 is important to me and I am following it closely. I will never vote for anyone, for any office, who supports Bill. 51. Thank you, Carol Noblit 15-1840 Beach Road, HPPCD �' «.� CD W W From: Debbie Nutter Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 6:34 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Feeding Ban Council members, This email is to voice my opposition to Bill 51 Feeding Ban. I live in Discovery Harbour where there is a population of feral cats. I have observed the cats over the last few years, and have seen first-hand that withholding food from the cats does not reduce the population. An alternative to not feeding is the use of spay and neuter clinics. The spay and neuter clinics are relatively new to this area, but as more people become aware of them, more and more cats are being caught and taken to the clinics. We need more time to allow this method of control to work. Just today, 200 cats were spayed or neutered at the local Petfix clinic. That's a huge impact on the population. Tax dollars would be better spent on supporting the clinics, rather than on law enforcement officers trying to enforce a no -feeding rule. With this bill, you are asking your constituents to participate in inhumane treatment of animals. I am asking you not to pass this bill, and to search for a humane solution. CLD C .; Thank you. From: Elaine Orenberg-Anderson Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 11:36 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: OPPOSE Bill 51 with amendments Dear Members of the Hawaii County Council, register my opposition to Bill 51. Please vote NO. Please do not pass this inhumane legislation. You have heard all of the reasons. This Bill 51 will be damaging to the reputation of the island and to each one of you who votes approval. Elaine Anderson ' Kamuela, Hawaii co CD From: janice glennie Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:48 PM To: Council Testimony Cc: Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt; Kimball, Heather; Villegas, Rebecca Subject: Bill 51 -- Hawaii County Lifesaving Companion Animal Management Plar 4 Aloe Animal Alliance - Aloha Animal Alliance Hawaii " Importance: High CD y } - ?''. Aloha council members, :>5 There's likely not one person of the hundreds who've testified on Bill 51 that doesn't agree that the care and survival of Hawaii's native species are of utmost importance. Yet Bill 51 is lightyears off the mark in its attempt to deal with the moral ambiguities surrounding the issue of homeless cats. It's like fighting over religion rather than coming together to see where those religions intersect. Bill 51 lacks expert input and creates division. It relies on punitive measures instead of community - driven, humane, and proven solutions. It lacks clearly and empathetically stated goals to create buy -in. While it's crucial to manage feral animal populations to protect native fauna, there's no place for mistreating them. That includes starving them to death which this bill promotes. Council members who repeatedly claim that not being able to feed on county property is its "only" limitation are denying the elephant in the room: That they don't know cats, and feeding on county property will crucially affect rescue efforts. Mahalo to council rep Kimball for working with Aloha Animals Alliance and veterinarian, Kelly Foster, in her effort to create a bill that was, apparently not presented due to the introduction of Mr Kanealii Kleinfelder's Bill 51. This seems an unfortunate and counterproductive political conundrum. It also seems odd that salient points in ms kimball's bill, which included collaboration with an experienced animal rescue group, wasn't considered when Mr Kanealii-kleinfelder wrote Bill 51. (Please see point #6 below regarding one of Ms Kimball's recurring comments.) Because community sentiment, interest, and activity regarding humane feline control and protection of native birds and monk seals run so high, it seems pono to table, indefinitely postpone, or kill Bill 51 to give ample time for those two council reps and others (perhaps as a working group) to come together to craft a better bill built substantially on the experience presented on the website (attached) as well astestimony to date. It would also give time for council to glean more scientific and community input to help correct a legislative situation that's spiraling— and not in a good way. For those council members who haven't looked at Aloha Animals Alliance site (attached), delving into it will help bring more awareness and empathy toward those with varied or opposing views so that we can move toward enacting legislation that's workable, has county buy -in, and uses more carrots than sticks. What we can all agree on is that we'd like to create a safer environment for all living creatures as well as a stronger, more united community, yes? "Must have's" for a successful bill include (simultaneous): 1. County and state -supported sanctuaries for safe and humane protection of homeless cats. 2. County and state supported, affordable, accessible spay and neuter programs. 3. No criminalization or fines for feeding homeless cats from the goodness of their hearts. People will continue to do so since their morals won't allow otherwise. 4. Allowing cats to be fed where they are until they're humanely trapped, including county (aka public) property. Feeding and rescuing feral cats on private property is tricky and often dangerous to animals and humans. 5. Widespread community outreach to let people know there are alternatives to dumping unwanted pets. 6. No kicking cats down the road, including flying them off -island. Many will be used in research, which will make a bill unpalatable and DOA. Mahato again for your time on this issue. Best regards, Janice Palma-glennie Kailua-kona Skip to content ALL r, n » f t f CGIJ1IT-` ui. f;lmt John Pelletier Ahupua`a `o `0`oma, Kailua-Kona, HI 1 Y ns !74 August 5, 2025 jdp2766@gmail.com Hawaii County Council Hawaii County Building 25 Aupuni Street Hilo, Hawaii 96720 RE: Bill No. 51, Ordinance Amending Chapter 4, Article 3, of the Hawaii County Code Aloha nui kakou, aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and members of the Council, I'm John Pelletier, a resident of Kona, and I'm testifying in support of Bill 51, without the amendment allowing for county -designated cat feeders. Hawai`i's native ecosystems are among the most unique and fragile on the planet. Many of our native species exist nowhere else in the world and are already struggling to survive. Species like the nene, ae`o, `alae ke`oke`o, k6lea, and `ilioholoikauaua are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of feral animals. Feeding cats and other feral animals in public spaces leads to overpopulation and encourages animals to congregate in sensitive areas where they prey on or displace native species, spread disease, and contaminate habitats. Feeding feral animals in public spaces also creates a sense of tolerance for abandonment. When people see animals being fed regularly in parks and beaches, it sends the message that it's okay to drop off unwanted pets because "someone will take care of them." The Department of Parks and Recreation shared that the volleyball court at Maka`eo cannot be restored for public use because it is used as a litter box by feral cats. This is a clear example of how unmanaged feeding sites degrade shared community spaces and limit recreational access for our residents. While I appreciate the intent behind the amendment to allow a county -designated feeder, I believe it contradicts the goals of this bill. It essentially legalizes and institutionalizes feeding on county property which is the very behavior this bill is trying to eliminate. If we are serious about protecting native wildlife, public health, and the integrity of our parks, this amendment should be repealed. Mahalo for your time and for your consideration of my testimony in support of Bill 51. Ke aloha n6, John Pelletier From: Lise Peterson Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 12:29 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Cat feeding on Hawaii island Aloha, my name is Lise Peterson and I am actively involved with the TNR program on South Kohala Coast. I have been volunteering with spaying and neutering of these feral cats for 10 years now. In my opinion this is what is needed, and how it is done. Anything else is inhumane and cruel. We need help however with sanctuary land, and more people to be doing TNR. As you know it is volunteer only, and most of us are working one to two jobs on top of this. My number is 8084438334. I'm happy to testify about this publicly. 1 am very much against this bill to ban the feeding of the stray cats on the county property. It definitely must need to be done in a controlled manner as to not contribute to the NENe bird problem, but but we have a solution for that that was shut down by the DLNR once before. Sincerely, Lise Peterson Sent from my Whone CD CD -. is = w - From: DayOldPoi c Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 7:46 PM � r? To: Council Testimony '"== > _ _ Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 -- - Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously?upported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers! This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Teresa Powell From: Leah Quaranta r CD c-; Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 7:12 PM `:"' r To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 2:6 . - Aloha a Councilmembers, <r Me 0- I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kan eali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear tine —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Leah Rose Quaranta ParaProfessional Educator From: Jordyn Quesenberry u Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:02 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Opposing Current Amendment of Bill 51 r, Aloha a Councilmembers, v- - I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Liti`uokatani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. From: dulice reden Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:23 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Feeding ban of Hawaii cats I am a retired nurse practitioner, and surgical physician assistant, and have been working with spay/neuter organizations for the past 15 years. Supporting these organizations is the most effective and Humane way to manage community Cats. If you don't feed the cats, you cannot Trap them and get them neutered. The cats suffer greatly without food and fresh water. I have witnessed starving cats in areas trying to drink salt water. It is inhumane and not effective. Science does not support starving cats as an effective way of control. They will still braid and then you will have generations of starving Cats Instead of paying officers to fine the cat feeders who are trapping and reducing the number of cats, funding should be given to more spay and neuter programs. Colonies of Cats decrease over time with this program. I live in Kona Paradise and we have reduced the number of breeding cats dramatically in the population has decreased markedly in the last 15 years. Many of these colonies have neutered cats already, and it is animal cruelty to starve these cats and will not help decrease their numbers. Also, starving cats place more wildlife at risk. I urge you not to let this cruel inhumane built to pass as it will only create more problems. Starvation is animal cruelty, and there's no sugar coating that. Respectfully, Dulice Reden, Family Nurse Practitioner Sent from my iPhone 77 n` From: Joe Reitz c-3 Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 3:06 PM �- C3 c To: Council Testimony< Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Z Aloha a Councilmembers, w x" I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previouslyWpported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Joe Reitz Sent from my Whone CDn From: ANER Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:27 AM —+ To: Council Testimony— Subject: Testimony Opposing Bill 51 t-; S r- Aloha a Chair & Councilmembers, w y' I'm writing in strong opposition to the current version of Bill 51, Draft 3. While the original bill penalized the feeding of feral and stray animals on County land, this new version includes a loophole for "certified community cat caretakers." This change goes against the original purpose of the bill, which is the need to protect native wildfire and reduce environmental contamination. Allowing certain people to keep feeding cats on County property makes the problem worse. It sends the message that it's okay to maintain feral cat colonies in our parks and public spaces. But we know from experience that this kind of feeding leads to more abandoned animals, damage to facilities, and harm to native wildlife. Feeding them only encourages their spread and puts our native birds, like the n6n6, at risk. Earlier this year, a nisne gosling died from toxoplasmosis in Lili'uokalani Gardens, a park where cats are fed regularly. This is not an isolated case. But what's it gonna take, the entire negn6 population to die, in order to make necessary changes? DLNR and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council both oppose feeding and maintaining cat colonies. They know that protecting our native ecosystems requires stopping the spread of invasive animals, especially in public spaces where endangered species live. Listening to experts on that matter should weigh heavily on this decision. The original version of Bill 51 was developed with input from the county who deal with the daily impacts of unmanaged animal populations every day. Let's honor their work and the mana'o they shared. We must return to the original language that clearly prohibits feral animal feeding on County land, with no loopholes and no exemptions. To allow feeding of feral cats, even under a permit system, is to choose invasive species over native life. It is to say we are willing to risk the health of our parks, our native wildlife, and our cultural heritage. Please restore the original intent of Bill 51. Let's show our commitment by protecting our 'Gina, and especially our native species. Mahalo for your time, Nakai Ribao 808-268-6062 The benate =� '..Jl Ra `Zfba Renehoa STATE CAPITOL HONOLULU, HAWAI`I 96813 t `t Tuesday, August 5, 2025 RE: Testimony Providing Comments on Hawaii County Council Bill 51 w To the Hawaii County Council Members, co Mahalo for the opportunity to submit testimony on Hawaii County Council Bill 51. 1 commend the Council's commitment to protecting our native species, safeguarding public health, and advancing ecosystem resiliency. As a Veterinarian, I am well versed in the serious threats posed by toxoplasmosis and the impacts that other zoonotic diseases will have on our native species and biologically diverse ecosystems. I have reviewed the language of the proposed County Ordinance in Bill 51, and believe in the intent and overall direction that this measure moves in. However, I cannot support legislation that will invite the presence, maintenance, and sustained preservation of any stray or feral felid colony. To do so would only perpetuate the issue, and continue to introduce the presence of harmful biohazards to our County and State. Although there are certain aspects in the current language of the measure that are exceptional, scientific evidence does not support TNVRM strategies as an effective solution to eradicating the presence of toxoplasmosis in the environment. Toxoplasma gondii—shed in the feces of felids—can persist in soil, rivers, streams, and ocean water for up to 18 months. Allowing colonies to remain near waterways endangers human and ecological health through continued contamination. Allowance of the sustained presence of feral fetid colonies near streams or ephemeral bodies of water will render their integrity compromised, placing the public health at further risk. Mahalo for the opportunity to provide comments on this vital public health and environmental matter.. Herbert M "Tim" Richards III, DVM Hawaii State Senator; District 4 State Capitol 415 S Beretania St. Room 202 Honolulu, HI 96813 United States Office: (808) 586-6760 FAX: (808) 586-6689 Email: SenRichardsCo)capitol.hawaii.gov From: Caroline Sabharwal (Karl) Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, 12:49 PM `" n 1--, -c, C tin -�- I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously sb.pported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Karl S. From: jks0609 Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:58 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - Oppose the amendment to allow trained feeders/ no feeders should be allowed! Aloha, I strongly oppose the amendment introduced to allow trained feeders to continue to feed invasive species in our public and private places. This amendment does nothing to protect our protected species. As a person who works in our public places these invasive animals do not belong here especially when there is known federally protected species. This is Hawai'i where these native species are from, invasive feral cats and other invasives are introduced to live among our natives. Hawaii has the strictest laws even to keep cats indoors. Having a politician back door an amendment totally disregards the color of law and all standing rules in regards to parks, beaches and personal/private property especially where no feeding signs is posted and already a law/rule. I strongly support Bill 51 as in no feeding and oppose any amendment to continue to feeding.-,-.,c- r CD c- Protect our native species because this is the only connection Hawaiians have to our past.; ; Very Respectfully,. r--- Joseph K. Simpliciano jr v7 Sent from Gmail Mobile �J From: marena brinkhurst Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 10:33 AM Council Testimony' _-1'' Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 -tl Aloha a Councilmembers, T Y_ I am writing with a note about the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While I strongly supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —the new amended provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers" sadly undermines the entire intent of the bill and risks legalizing the feeding of stray animals on county property. Please undo that amendment. This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As a mother of a toddler who hopes to be pregnant again soon, it is deeply concerning to me that our parks and public spaces are being allowed to be infected by this parasite due to the misguided feeding of stray animals. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Marena Smith Kailua-Kona CD From: Danielle Spitz -� Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:56 AM To: Council Testimony - Subject: I OPPOSE BILL 51 ' Dear County Council Members, GN I am submitting testimony in OPPOSITION to Bill 51. 1 am a resident of Waimea, South Kohala district. I am actively involved in animal rescue and sanctuary, and have been for the past 35 years, both in Hawaii and on the mainland. Beyond the abject cruelty involved in this feeding ban, I do not support Bill 51 based on the following: -Feeding bans do not work and are not scientifically supported. Leading animal welfare organizations like the Humane World for Animals (formerly HSUS), ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and the National Animal Care and Control Association all oppose feeding bans. In fact, there isn't one example demonstrating the success of feeding bans as a method of population control. -Feeding bans will not make the cats go away. The logic behind feeding bans is that if no one feeds free -roaming cats, the cats will go away. This rarely works because there may be more than one feeder, feeders will resist, enforcement is difficult and unpopular with caring citizens, and there are other sources of food like trash. Let's also not forget that some of our visitors will feed community cats near their lodging while here. -Humane efforts to control the cat population are already in progress at Aloha Animal Alliance and are having a measurable impact. Planned efforts include large scale spay/neuter surgery events and networking with caretakers to manage the ongoing trapping and sterilization of community cats by providing free trap rentals and no cost spay/neuter surgery. As our TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) efforts have increased, we've already experienced measurable results. -Feeding bans will discourage trap -neuter -return efforts, leading to MORE cats. These bans effectively prevent caregivers from being able to trap and sterilize the cats in their care, which means cats will continue to have new litters of kittens. Hence the cycle continues. -Feeding bans are a waste of taxpayer dollars. Feeding bans punish compassionate caregivers, are difficult to enforce and direct resources away from programs that encourage and support spay/neuter efforts. Since when is compassion a crime? Why is it OK to have compassion for homeless humans but not for other species? These cats did not choose to be homeless. Visit some of the colonies and you will see how many of the cats are not feral but just wary of humans after being dumped. -Feeding Bans are Invasive. A feeding ban criminalizes the behavior of thousands of people who feed animals to humanely care for them. -A sanctuary may not be the answer for Big Island's cats. Lana'i Cat Sanctuary estimates that it costs $1 000 per cat per year to operate its facility. Big Island has an estimate of at least 40,000 free - roaming cats who will live an average lifespan of 8 years. I have read testimony that mainlanders are trying to impose their values on Hawaii by caring for community cats. I do not believe this is the issue here.We need legislation to address the root problems of overpopulation due to a lack of spay and neuter (both education of its necessity and affordable cost) and the heartless dumping of pet cats to fend for themselves. Mahalo for taking the time to read my testimony. Aloha, Danielle Spitz Danielle A Spitz 808.937.7137 From: espreha Sent: Wednesday, July 30, 2025 5:24 AM To: Council Testimony Cc: info@hawaiibirdtours.com Subject: Feral Cat Feeding at Holano Point Hello, Please eliminate and prohibit all feral cat feeding stations at the Red-tailed Tropicbird colony at Holano Point on Oahu. Feral cats are preying on protected Tropicbird chicks. These protected nesting birds are not only a naturally occurring species, but they are also a boon to the islands' commercial tourism industry! Sincerely, Ed Spreha N � r, C= 717 460-7751 2 - Sent from my iPad ' `l .Y W From: Emma Stierhoff Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:19 PM (-1 c ; To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting Bill 51 as written in Draft 2 r Aloha a Councilmembers,'''- I am writing to express my opposition of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While overall this bill has my strong support- I believe prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on county parks is essential to protect native species and keep our parks clean- I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment completely undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. As a conservation biologist who has worked heavily with native birds, and a Hilo community member, I am so tired of grieving preventable deaths of nene, alae ke`o, and koa`e kea, among other native birds: deaths that can be directly tied to feral cat feeding and resulting cat colonies. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Garden, a location known for daily cat feeding. Feedings on public lands also pose a risk to human health: County staff have consistently confirmed that feeding stations attract pests like rats and mongoose, and create unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. It is essential that we eliminate the feeding of feral and stray animals entirely on our county lands altogether. "Cat caretakers" are still welcome to feed cats on their private land, but this should not be allowed on public lands. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition, and showed immense promise. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. I cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. I am a lover of animals myself, and have a beloved indoor cat, but I cannot condone feeding feral cats and other stray animals when it comes at such a great cost to our native wildlife and public safety. I implore you to revise Bill 51 to remove the exemption for "certified community cat caretakers", effectively restoring the original language of the bill as presented in Draft 2, before moving forward with it. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership, Emma Stierhoff From: Israel Stillman' r� Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:15 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 _T7 Aloha a Councilmembers, w I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. it codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Israel Stillman CD From: clatsop_creek Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 6:37 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, w' I am a mainland resident who visits Hawaii at least once a year to visit family and enjoy the native wildlife and plants. As a visitor I spend money with wildlife guides, in local hotels and restaurants and I support the local economy through what I hope are low impact activities. I am appalled by the growing, uncontrolled feral cat feeding stations throughout the islands and the swarms of unregulated feral predators that they attract. Today I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. Please allow county personnel to trap and remove feral animals from county parks with no exceptions. While I previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. Lili'oukilani Park has degraded in the 25 years that I have been visiting. The native nene are wonderful to see and yet the cats and the cat food are an enormous threat to the very existence of the species. Nene and other native annimals and plants are a gift to Hawaii and the world. The native Hawaiian species teach us about strength and resilience and also the perils of ecosystems out of balance. The data are clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. I cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. I urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Thank you for all you do for the community. Sheila Strachan From: Ashley Sukanen Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:21 AM o n Council Testimony - C� To: Subject: oppose Bill 51' Dear Council Members, MY name is Ashley Sukanen and I am a resident of Kailua Kona. This letter is to speak out in opposition to Bill 51 on the feeding feral cats and other animals. It also urges support for policies that embrace Trap -Neuter -Release (TNR) programs for the community's cat population. Banning feeding is an outdated and ineffective approach to managing cat populations. Cats are territorial and won't leave their established territories simply because their regular food source is removed. A feeding ban will lead to cats scavenging for food and potentially cause more calls to animal control. Our resources are already overwhelmed. TNR is a proven and humane method for managing community cat populations. Under a TNR program, feral cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and returned to their original outdoor homes. This process offers several benefits: • Population Control: TNR stops the breeding cycle. It prevents the birth of more kittens, which gradually reduces the overall population over time. • Improved Health and Welfare: Cats in TNR programs receive vaccinations. This can reduce the spread of diseases within the colony and to other animals. • Reduced Nuisance Behaviors: Sterilized cats are less likely to engage in behaviors like yowling, fighting, and spraying. These behaviors are often associated with mating behaviors, making communities more harmonious places to live. Many communities across the country have successfully implemented TNR programs. These programs have demonstrated long-term effectiveness compared to traditional methods. Allowing volunteers to continue feeding and managing colonies is an essential part of the TNR program and population control. 1 Our community should be able to come up with solutions that do not include the suffering of innocent, abandoned animals. It is requested that the Hawaii County Council Members and Mayor prioritize the well-being of community cats. Embrace TNR as a compassionate and effective solution. Consider the resources and help provided by our local organizations. Out of all the different solutions that could be implemented, this is what our council members see as the best option? Bill 51 is not the solution! Please consider TNR and colony management rather than animal cruelty and Bill 51. Thank you for your time and consideration of this important issue. Sincerely, Ashley Sukanen z From: judsweatland Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:25 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Councilmembers: _ Please reconsider approving Bill 51. My husband and I are longtime kamaiana on the Big Island and have managed two community cat colonies for the last 6 years. Everything cat that is dumped (about 50% of total colony) and any unowned cat is fed nightly, spayed/neutered, medical needs met and greet us every night, same time and place. We live at a higher elevation where native birds do exist, and have never seen any killed birds other than two doves in 6 years. Plenty of rats though. We pay for every cent, vet visits, all. We have relocated every colony cat into catios on our property, each cat vaccinated before putting them all together in one space. They have thrived and even more trusting than our indoor cats. This is a situation with over population of community cats that is caused by humans. These cats don't deserve to be starved. That is extreme and cruel. A feral cat can be tamed if given love and respect. TNR has been proven to be the most effective method of controlling the population. It works nationwide, as many cities have supported it and allow it with reductions in population. The release part of the program is critical also, as these cats have only one home, and once managed by a caregiver, will stay there. They are incredibly intelligent and know where their food and care comes from. A little respect and aloha can go a long way but just with people but animals. Please, show some compassion. This bill is misguided and incomplete. How one rescue has enough volunteers to certify caregivers, let alone keep data, is unknown. How would enforcement of feeders be done? Enforcement of humans that dump animals is an ongoing problem that exists because nothing is done. That is where efforts should be made, as half the cats are dumped. Just the thought of starving animals to get them to move to another area .... or where else .... is ridiculous. Someone hasn't done their homework on this one. Follow the examples of cities that have successfully allowed managed TNR programs. Hawaii nei needs to step up and do the right thing, not resort to barbaric and inhumane means that the majority of people disagree with. Come on, native birds are up mauka at higher elevations and not at lower elevations, except nene. They go where they want and are in much more danger from vehicles. Mongoose are at lower elevations too and are very aggressive. Avian malaria is the number one threat to our native birds and you should all be aware of this. Efforts are being made in the state to introduce sterile mosquitoes to help the bird population. Species can live together. It isn't always perfect, but trying to make Hawaii into a gated community type environment is not what we need. Do we want things to look perfect like on the mainland,? I've always loved Hawaii and visited throughout my life until we moved here 13 years ago. Seeing cats and chickens in the environment was a welcome change from the craziness of overcrowded cities and traffic. Simple stuff. This latest bill is embarrassing and disgusting, as there are humane methods of handling community cats. Let the people that already are caregivers do their jobs. Some may leave food bowls and need to be told that it isn't necessary to leave food. Stay while they eat, and take bowls. Simple. More assistance from the county towards free or low cost spayed/neuter would be helpful for residents. Please use your time and efforts toward major issues concerning the county and not worry about the cats. Support TNR. There is no sanctuary big enough to house all of them and its inconceivable to even consider it without assistance with land and lots of money. I cannot tell you how much this means to us out there who love and care for these animals. I love Hawaii and can't imagine telling friends and family on the mainland what our legislators believe is a real and legit solution to manage colonies. Please do not approve this inhumane and cruel legislation. It makes no sense and will not help the situation. Where do you think those cats will go? Mahalo for your time and consideration. This so called solution breaks my heart to even imagine the thought that starving community cats that are just trying to survive thanks to humans. Do the pono thing and stop this proposed bill. Mahalo, Judy and Clayton Sweatland Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S8+, an AT&T 5G Evolution capable smartphone From: Sent: To: Subject: OPPOSE Bill 51 Dana Monday, July 28, 2025 3:14 PM Council Testimony OPPOSE Bill 51 How cruel and disgusting to bad people from helping and caring for the strays!! Instead of rescuing and saving those poor animals which are in this situations because of ignorant and heartless citizens, the solution is to hurt the animal instead of holding the very people responsible of this crime accountable??? It's a crime to abandon an animal !!! It's a crime to not spay and neuter an animal that will go and procreate adding to the already existing stray problem!!! It's a crime to hurt and neglect an animal that is already suffering and cannot help it self !!! It is not a crime to feed and help a stray !!! It is part of being a decent human being... but I guess you all lost Gods way... what kind of person support such evil and unnatural laws ??? I OPPOSE BILL 51 AND SO SHOULD YOU IF YOU HAVE A LITTLE BIT OF DECENCY LEFT IN YOU!!!! Dana M Sweeney From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha a Councilmembers, Nicole Tachibana Monday, August 4, 2025 4:18 PM Council Testimony Testimony Supporting 51 COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAXhl' I RECEIVED(� Time �f IL,(Vt- By - Date AUG 0 4 2025 I am writingto express my strong opposition to Draft 3 of Bill 51, which would allow "certified community cat caretakers" to feed and maintain feral cat colonies on County property. This amendment undermines the original intent of the bill, which was to protect our native wildlife and public spaces from the harmful impacts of feral animal feeding. As someone who has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of feral cats on native species, I cannot support a policy that perpetuates this cycle of harm. This year, I've seen a dramatic decline in Hawaiian stilt fledglings in areas overrun by feral cats. I've also noticed an alarming increase in cat feces in public spaces, posing health risks to our community. The death of a nene gosling from toxoplasmosis at Lili`uokalani Gardens, a known feeding site, is a tragic reminder of what's at stake. The "certified feeder" exemption is a contradiction. How can the County claim to address the problem while sanctioning the very activity that sustains it? Feeding feral cats attracts more animals, encourages abandonment, and signals that dumping pets is acceptable. It also puts the County at legal risk under the Endangered Species Act, as these cats continue to prey on and spread disease to protected species. Hawaii County Code already fines residents for not cleaning up after their pets. Will Parks and Recreation now be responsible for cleaning up after these "county -managed" cat colonies? It's absurd to ban leashed dogs from beaches while allowing invasive predators to be fed in the same areas. This amendment invalidates the purpose of Bill 51. If we are serious about protecting native species, public health, and our parks, we must restore the original language. Feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Nicole Tachibana Get Outlook for iOS From: Kassandra Talamantez Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 7:34 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 Aloha a Councilmembers, ;J I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51, Draft 3, which undermines its original intent" creating an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers" to feed feral cats on County property. This bill was meant to stop the harmful practice of feeding feral animals in public spaces, yet this amendment institutionalizes the very problem it sought to solve. As someone who has worked in conservation for five years, I have seen firsthand the devastation feral cats cause to native wildlife. These invasive predators thrive even in extreme environments, from coastal areas to high -elevation forests, preying on endangered seabirds, forest birds, and even monk seals. The idea that feeding them is necessary for their survival is false —they persist regardless, and feeding only sustains colonies that harm our ecosystems. The recent death of a nene gosling from toxoplasmosis at Lili'uokalani Gardens, a known cat -feeding site, is a tragic example of the consequences of this practice. County parks should be safe, clean spaces for our community, not hubs for invasive predators. Allowing sanctioned feeding contradicts DLNR and HISC guidance, which opposes TNR and colony maintenance due to their proven harm to native species. This amendment also creates legal liability. If the County authorizes feeding, it becomes responsible for the resulting damage to protected species under the Endangered Species Act. How can we fine people for not cleaning up pet waste yet endorse feral cat colonies that leave feces and attract more abandoned animals? Bill 51 must return to its original form —no exemptions. Feeding feral cats on public land harms wildlife, public health, and our parks. Let's prioritize native species and enforce responsible policies. Mahalo for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Kassandra Talamantez -Kassandra Talamantez From: Jesus Teran �? Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 9:44 AM = `" To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Opposing Resolution 140-25 Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously supported this bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili`uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and prof essionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai`i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Yours Truly, Jesus Manuel Teran Olivas From: Norris Thomlinson Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 12:00 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Support Bill 51 without amendment in Draft 3 Attachments: signature.asc Aloha Councilmembers, I support the goal of Bill 51 as originally written, to halt the feeding of feral animals on County properties. Though such feeding is well intentioned, it's a short-term fix which only reinforces the deeper problem of overpopulation. Allowing continued feeding by designated feeders negates the purpose of the bill. Please support Bill 51 without this loophole. Mahalo, r__), CD Norris Thomlinson t r C) Ui Ch From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha a Councilmembers, Caroline Thow Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:30 AM Council Testimony Testimony Supporting 51 I am writing in opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While I previously supported and continue to support the original purpose of this bill —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property, I cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment leaves open the opportunity the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this bill was meant to stop. I urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Caroline Thow, PhD ; 3= r PO Box 1451 c Pahoa, HI 96778 510-295-8822 ```' - - r� w .__ From: Vivian Toellner Sent: Saturday, August 2, 2025 5:19 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 oppose the ban on feeding cats and TNR colonies 1. Feeding bans lead to increased bird predation. Published research shows that cats who subsist by hunting alone will kill far more birds than cats whose diets are subsidized by humans. (Q1,ig!p1( 1cal Conservation-,, 214 ION . Cif ; . .. _.,.Wc i nr , k i et aL,:. . ?w .i r.- --------- Killed in_. ----_--� ----- • Feral cats in natural (wild) environments who subsist entirely by predation: —129 birdslyr killed o CD r'� • Feral cats in highly modified environments (human -based food sources ar'� - available) —61.5 birds/yr killed m` • Domestic Pet cats: —15.6 birds/yr killed - -� .... ................. .......... ........ .... . 2. Feeding Bans are Counterproductive to Addressing Concerns about Toxoplasmosis. Researchers studying Toxoplasmosis in sea otters off the coast of California found a significantly lower prevalence of the disease in managed feral cats (17%) than wild cats or unmanaged feral cats subsisting on wild prey (73-81 %). This makes intuitive sense, of course, since cats are infected with Toxoplasmosis through their prey. (= ;c N lth_1 a _2, .3., 1.3International, Association r, co ------- �� eal h 1 <�r�Wor�rr�er_et„ Iw m c r l >rr� e rar�c ii�, c arr c� R +i l� r c n ribG�tic�nNof Dome1-1-1­1stic Fellds to _terrestrial P rasJ,e Lo,a,d1ng, CLc�� rµlrit�r�i�lrr,F�r�v�l�r�r;�) 3. TNR is the most effective, humane path to less cats. Trap -neuter -return (TNR) is a management technique in which community cats are humanely trapped, evaluated, spayed or neutered by a licensed veterinarian, ear -tipped ti show they've been sterilized, dewormed, optionally vaccinated and then returned to their original habitat. Maui Humane Society offers this as a free service made possible by grants. Targeted TNR (i.e., maximizing the number of cats sterilized at the colony or neighborhood level) offers several benefits over less humane approaches that have been used for decades without success. These benefits include: Reduced shelter intake of cats and kittens Reduced shelter deaths of cats and kittens Stabilized and (over time) reduced community cat population Reduced number of nuisance complaints 1 Published Case Studies: • 11 y lli _ _� ?;-Neuter-RetUrn_ResearchCc�rr��end� Urn • Best Friends Tr p-letter RetUrn_(TNR), L)ccessStori Related Topics Cat sanctuaries can be a solution for smaller communities with less cats — but for Hawai'i Island, it would be extremely costly and impractical. Lana'i Cat Sanctuary states that it costs rµy r to maintain their facility — not including starting costs to purchase land, set up enclosures, and provide ongoing veterinary care. 40,000 cats on Hawaii Island x $1000/cat/year x average life 8 years = $32090009000 It costs an average of $50 to spay or neuter a cat and stop it from multiplying. Aggressive, strategic TNR is vastly more cost-effective and impactful when it comes to reducing cat populations. Eradication/Relocation Doesn't Work. Each time cats are removed, the population will rebound through a well -documents phenomenon known as the "vacuum effect," drawing the community into a costly, endless cycle of trapping and killing. No matter how many animals are removed, if the resources remain, the population will eventually recover. Any cats remaining after a catch and kill effort will produce kittens and at a higher surviva rate, filling the habitat to capacity. As t,hi��_-ti,'e�y found, "populations greatly reduced by culling are likely to rebound quickly." Over time, the number of cats in an area where a feral cat colony has been killed or relocated will eventually recover and return to its original size. • A,CIc) X r [rook at C0rnr LL, 1LtY f,P�c (ASPCA) • The VaCULArn Effect. �iUhy �_,tc;h ,and Kill Doesn't Work (Alley Cat Allies) submitted by Vivian Toellner ;j From: cgrand40 Sent: Thursday, July 31, 2025 9:33 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Reject Bill 5 Dear Council Members, I implore you to please reject Bill 5 and let us carry on and enjoy the cats at parks like we have been doing for years. I walk at the Old Airport Park almost daily and have been giving some cats a snack for the last 10 years or so. I am in my 80s, and they give me a purpose for walking there. I currently have 6 cat friends there that come bounding when I approach their area. They bring joy to me, my visiting friends and family. The cats are fixed and healthy, thanks to a couple wonderful and caring women. And thank you to the organizations who dedicate time and effort to control the cat population and keep them healthy. They are not doing this in vain. Today I see that people seem to have less empathy and respect toward others, animals and especially older folks. So please empathize with us and let us continue to feed the cats at the park while walking. They bring smiles to many faces, especially the children. Kind Regards, Millie Towata GrandCD Holualoa F I� y r-- .; j ram' From: Sent: To: Subject: Cynthia F Tucker Naihe, PsyD Clinical Psychologist Cynthia Tucker Tuesday, August 5, 2025 7:55 AM Alameda, Christian (Kimo); Council Testimony; Kimball, Heather, Kagiwada, Jennifer, Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka; Hustace, James; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt; MayorsOffice; Victorine, Clifford Opposition testinony to Bill 51 Honorable Mayor Alameda, Honorable Council Members Re — Opposition to Bill 51 Honorable Mayor Alameda; and Honorable Council Members Good morning to All. t`J I am writing in strong opposition to Bill 51, which ultimately is a cruel starvation Bill if you are not putting into place a strong model of TVRNM. The return — 'R' part of TVRNM is essential, or else the design will not work. I do not have any idea why a Bill such as Bill 51 was created, in the middle of a plan for TVRNM that was going to be put in place, that had already been partially funded. TVRNM is the latest in science driven data, has not been implemented on the Big Island as of yet - but was in progress - and we have a strong system of TVRNM here on O'ahu (and is used on Kaua'I and Maui) where Honolulu County partners with the Hawaiian Humane Society, all Cat Advocacy and Cat Agencies, and a network of unpaid volunteers that manage the colonies with vaccinations, chips, fed, watered, clean up services, medical services, all at no cost to anyone because the volunteers — who have been trained on a module — do this for free. We also have free spay / neuter here on O'ahu, and that is part of the infrastructure that needs to be built. There are other important initiatives as well that have been circulated via a petition you've all received. Many times volunteers will take any cats they feel they can get adopted or fostered, into a safe environment, they may at that time pull them from a colony, but not before, for reasons to follow. The TVRNM model is taken from a multidisciplinary team of Biological Conservationists, scientists, veterinarians, social scientists and the County, and is used again on O'ahu, Maui, Kauai, and we hope soon to be the model as well on the Big Island to be designed with knowledge and sensitivity to the dynamics there. WHY BILL 51 WILL NOT WORK WITHOUT THE 'R' (Return) IN TVRNM Bill 51 on the Big Island is a cruel starvation of cats Bill - some groups or people are saying it isn't a starvation bill, and that is because these groups / people do not understand cat behavior at all (or do, and just don't care). Cats are very social domestic animals - they live in social circles and are attached to the other cats, and also know where they are being fed, and they attach to the people who take care of them. if shoo'd away, they will come back for the people who cared for them and wait for them. its a RELATIONSHIP, they are social, smart and bond. There is a love within these relationships as they attach to the other cats socially as a 'family' and to caregivers as well. To move them out - which was tried elsewhere on Big Island a few years ago - is disastrous - as they scatter, and some wait there are starve to death in a cruel manner - emaciated, organs shutting down etc. Many have the old photos to prove it. Two officials on the Big Island made this mistake a few years ago, in thinking they could be fed elsewhere, but then when eventually went to see for for themselves that they insisted would not happen: they saw the truth of this starvation, emaciation, organ shut down, because enough people begged them to go and look. They've been very quiet since then. Bill 51 starves cats in a cruel manner. With TVNRM, they are managed, vaccinated, many are rescued and pulled for adoption, or can be eventually but slowly placed in a safe setting, while safely getting food and water. When they don't get food and water, then a lot of problems develop with rats, etc., and other serious issues that were mentioned by an MD in Kona - Clayton Foster (infectioius diseases specialist who also is against Bill 51). Please use humane means of caring for the cats and utilize TVRNM to start to begin to address the overpopulation in a much better manner for all involved. Bill 51 would not work as it creates the exact types of things it claims to 'get rid of. TVRNM humanely works over time and is used many cities, states, on O'ahu, Maui and Kaua'i. ROOT CAUSES OF CAT OVERPOPULATION Across the islands there has been very minimal to no infrastructure whatsoever to keep cat populations in check with a healthy infrastructure which would be: free tax funded spay and neuter which was just put in place on O'ahu, and a partnership between the County and Hawaiian Humane society, Cat Advocacy Groups of which there are many on the Big Island but currently work independently, and so many volunteers ready to go — that the Council is contemplating criminalizing community members, rather than utilizing their services to be trained on the professional TVRNM purchased module — or to be in sync with the volunteers who can easily inform them where colonies are being cared for, and to please not feed them as the TVRNM volunteers are doing so with the training module. The County has to realize that the big picture is a coherent infrastructure that does include TVRNM, tax funded or otherwise free spay / neuter, and groups like the above just mentioned, incentivized housing with pets, etc.. From the colonies: many times the volunteers will take cats, once they know they've secured an actual home from them, and place them into those homes, but not before. What's needed is a comprehensive organized professional plan of TVRNM (much like what we have on O'ahu) and a County infrastructure that also creates free spay/ neuter, and works or partners with all Animal/ Cat Agencies and Advocates, and volunteers together, to create real and positive change. CRUELTY TO THE COMMUNITY; CRIMINALIZING THEM There is no need to treat the community like 'criminals' for being compassionate and feeding domestic pet companion animals that have been dumped in public areas. This is cruelty — it is heinous and you've already heard a very loud and large outcry from the majority of the community about and against this. This sets up your community for divisive and bullying behavior from at least a few groups I can think of offhand, as well as amongst just people in the community. It leads to social media 'smear campaigns' of good people, altruistic people, religious people, people with good hearts and I, among many others, have seen plenty of those social media smear campaigns against altruism. Killing cats — particularly via forced starvation — is exceptionally cruel and listed as a felony, and I can't even get into the mindset of anyone who is for that. One testifier said at last reading —' It is degrading and dehumanizing to tell (me) people to stand near a sentient domestic companion animal — that most people bond with — see it suffering and in need of food and water — and then be forced by my own government to walk away. This is so heinous. In the study of any religions such an idea of starving animals - is an abomination, and there are many very religious community members. I am sure the Council Members like dogs (?). Were you asked to see a dog that was lost, abandoned or dumped in an untenable area — how would you respond to being forced to not try to save the dog, and also not provide food or water when you could see it clearly needs it and is suffering greatly, and looking to you for help. I do not believe that you could walk away. That is how most people feel about cats — greatly social animals — prescribed by doctors to various patients who can benefit from their therapeutic relationships with them, as well as being recommended for those who like cats by the American Psychiatric Association. Good for kapuna, good for keiki, good for special needs, good for anyone that has an affinity with cats. They are heartbroken if they are lost. they will not stand for seeing suffering and to walk away, and should not even be asked to. It is much better to not create divisiveness — and to welcome volunteers and altruistic people to either join TVRNM and be trained on the model, or to just be aware of it in action. If any TVRNM volunteers here managing a colony see any outside food being brought in, they will contact all the other cat agencies, and networks, and let them know to not bring food as the cats are being well cared for, fed and watered. Please leave it to these groups to communicate with one another, the volunteers take their roles very seriously. No need to cause disruption, bad feelings and divisiveness in the community. Pets — and cats — and dogs — are FAMILY. Most feel they are FAMILY, whether lost, stolen, etc. Whether feeding them where you see them, etc. People and cats build relationships very quickly, even outdoors, with each other in a very strong and bonded manner. Please NIX Bill 51, and put place the already planned TVRNM module in place to be implemented, and there would be no need to criminalize community members, who will then be able to communicate amongst themselves from and with TVRNM professionals. Please join us moving forward, as we have been doing, in a new and better way, organized and trained TVRNM - on O'ahu with a strong and solid program of TVRNM as County partners with Hawaiian Humane, Cat Advocacy groups, and unpaid volunteers for TVRNM. If any Council Members would like, please take our invitation to visit the officials and specialists here on O'ahu, to learn more about TVRNM; what committee formulated it, the science behind it, and how it works. We would be honored to have you here. Sincerely, Cynthia F. TuckerNaihe, Psy.D Kailua, Hawaii 96734 808 227-1881 This e-mail, including attachments, may include confidential and/or proprietary information, and may be used only by the person or entity to which it is addressed. If the reader of this e-mail is not the intended recipient or his or her authorized agent, the reader is hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this e-mail is prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender by replying to this message and delete this e-mail immediately. From: lauren � Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 6:36 PM, ,= " To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 T Aloha Chair and Council Members, 0- My name is Lauren Turnbaugh Foo, I live in District 8 and I am President and co-founder of Aloha Animal Alliance. I am testifying today to oppose Bill 51 in its current form and to urge the Council to adopt a phased implementation timeline that allows for a centralized approach to community cat management before enforcement begins. The goal of Bill 51—to protect native species and reduce the impact of free -roaming animals —is one I personally fully support. However, enforcing this bill immediately, without an organized rollout, will create confusion and unintended consequences: • Community cat management on Hawaii Island is currently decentralized. Individual feeders and small groups operate independently, and there is no unified system to track colonies or ensure compliance. If enforcement begins in this environment, cats will scatter, unsterilized breeding will increase, and the problem will worsen. For Bill 51 to succeed, the County needs to establish a central framework first: 1. Certified caretaker registration and training 2. Mapped and approved feeding stations 3. Clear public communication of the rules and timeline Without this structure, enforcement risks creating more problems than it solves. By delaying enforcement until a centralized system is in place, the Council ensures that Bill 51 will be effective, humane, and enforceable. This phased approach prevents conflict, colony scattering, and unintended harm, while still advancing the shared goal of environmental protection. Thank you for your consideration. Lauren Turnbaugh Foo President & Co -Founder, Aloha Animal Alliance lauren@alohaanimals.org 808-990-7776 From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha Council Members, John Uhley Sunday, August 3, 2025 5:28 AM Council Testimony Oppose Bill 51 Based on the volume of testimony at prior readings it is would certainly appear that this bill, even with a few proposed amendments, faces significant public opposition. It is my understanding that over 5,800 individuals have already signed a petition or submitted testimony in opposition. While I appreciate the proposed amendment which exempts certain registered feeding programs, I believe the bill still lacks the necessary logistical detail to make this work. More importantly, the bill at its core focuses on punitive measures on compassionate community volunteers rather than addressing one of the root causes of the issue: the abandonment of animals by irresponsible owners. The goal of reducing feral animal populations is understandable. However, this bill misplaces accountability, penalizes the wrong individuals, lacks implementation details for proposed amendments and risks wasting taxpayer resources on enforcement that targets those trying to help. I respectfully urge the Council to vote against this bill in its current form. If that is not possible, I ask that the bill be tabled to allow time for meaningful input from stakeholders such as the Hawaii Humane Society. Collaborating with organizations that support proven, humane strategies like TNVR (Trap Neuter Vaccinate Return) would result in more effective, compassionate, and fiscally responsible legislation. Mahalo, John Uhley 68-1376 S Pauoa Road Unit 43 _ Kamuela, HI 96743' _`- l� (808) 885-5451 w - From: Loki Vares Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:12 PM •rY � it To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting/OpposingSupporting/Opposing Bill 51 T Aloha a Councilmembers, I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously AM porfi` dthis bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot support the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for certified feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sincerely, Loki Vares Loki Vares From: Lauren Venable Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 12:49 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Strong opposition to Bill No. 51 — A Plea for Compassion and Humane Solutions for Community Cats t � Aloha Esteemed Council Members, Tj 1 am writing today as a concerned Hawai'i Island resident, animal lover, and advocate for _ compassionate, community -based solutions. I respectfully but firmly oppose the proposed amendment to Bill No. 51, Draft 2, which would effectively criminalize feeding community (homeless/feral) cats. This bill is not only deeply inhumane, but it is counterproductive to the very goal of managing the cat population. Cutting off food sources does not eliminate cats — it only increases suffering, causes disorientation, and ultimately drives animals into riskier areas (schools, businesses, roads) in desperate search of food. Starvation is not a humane or effective population control method. It is cruel. The people who feed and care for these cats are not the problem — in fact, they are part of the solution. Many of these caregivers participate in Trap -Neuter -Return (TNR) programs, which are internationally recognized as the most humane and effective method for managing stray cat populations. Removing feeders from the equation undermines these very efforts, as TNR reties on maintaining a stable, known colony where spay/neuter, vaccination, and monitoring can take place. Rather than punishing compassion, I urge the County Council to consider more ethical and effective alternatives, such as: • Expanding County -supported TNR programs, with funding for mobile clinics and vet subsidies Issuing permits for registered colony caregivers, creating accountability without criminalization • Partnering with animal welfare organizations for education, outreach, and support • Creating community education programs to reduce abandonment and increase spay/neuter participation This is a chance for Hawaii County to be a model of aloha and humane leadership — to recognize that every creature has value and that we can solve complex issues without cruelty. Please reconsider this bill and its amendment. The heart of Hawaii is rooted in caring for our land and all who live upon it— including our animals. I implore you to choose compassion over punishment, and collaboration over control. Mahalo for your time, and for your service to our community. With respect and aloha, Lauren Venable Honokaa, HI 808-494-7778 From: Mikioi Vericella Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 5:50 PM To: Council Testimony Testimony opposing Draft 3 of Bill 51 — Subject: Y PP 9 ' Aloha a Councilmembers,=- My name is Miki Vericella. I am a Native Hawaiian, born and raised in Hawaii, a small businesTowner, and someone who works closely with our land, animals, and local food systems. I am writing in strong opposition to Bill 51 Draft 3. While I supported the bill in its original form, which would prohibit the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property, I cannot support the newly added exemption for "certified community cat caretakers." This change directly undermines the purpose of the bill and sends a conflicting message to the public. I love cats, but I do not believe they have a place outdoors in Hawaii. Our ecosystem is too fragile, and our native birds and wildlife cannot withstand the pressure of non-native predators. I have personally seen feral cats climb trees more than twenty feet high in pursuit of prey. Feeding these colonies does not solve the problem. It sustains it, attracts more cats, and creates a false sense that abandoning pets is acceptable. County staff and agencies like DLNR and the Hawaii Invasive Species Council have been clear that feeding colonies perpetuates harm to our environment and is not an effective or responsible solution. Allowing a "certified" feeding program keeps us stuck in the same cycle that created this problem in the first place. It also increases the County's liability if endangered species are harmed as a result. If we are serious about protecting our native species, our public spaces, and our communities, then we must draw a clear line. I urge you to restore the original language from Draft 2 and remove the exemption entirely. The decisions we make today will determine what kind of environment our keiki inherit tomorrow, whether they grow up in a Hawaii where native birds still fill the trees or one where those voices have gone silent. Let us choose to protect what is irreplaceable. Mahalo for your time and for considering the long-term health of our `aina, our wildlife, and our community. Mikioi From: Erlinda Walker Sent• Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:16 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill against feeding cats at the park I am against this bill of feeding cats at the parks. It is not their fault that people are abandoning them when they can't care for the cats. Some people told us to let the cats starve and one person said she wants to shoot the cats. I thought there is a cruelty to animals law. Thank you for hearing my plea to stop this bill From: cindy walsh2 Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 10:16 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Do not support bill 51 Do not support bill number 51. For obvious reasons! From: Karen Wang Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 5:02 PM ; To: Council Testimony CD Subject: Testimony in Opposition to Bill 51 — Feeding Ban on County Lands Dear Council Members, ?ter y>ir Co My name is Karen Wang, and I am writing in strong opposition to Bill 51, which seeks to ban the feeding of cis on.�y : county lands. w There's no way around it —attempting to reduce the island's cat population through starvation is inhumane. Feeding bans do not work. They are not supported by science, nor by any credible animal welfare organization, including the Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA, or Best Friends Animal Society. These groups consistently advocate for Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate - Return (TNVR) programs as the only proven and ethical way to reduce free -roaming cat populations over time. The logic behind a feeding ban assumes that if people stop feeding cats, the cats will simply disappear. But that's not how ecosystems —or ethics —work. Cats will continue to search for food, rummage through trash, suffer from malnutrition, and reproduce. The result isn't fewer cats —it's more suffering, more kittens, and more public health issues. Feeding bans also actively undermine TNVR efforts. You cannot trap or sterilize a starving, stressed, and constantly relocating cat. By punishing caregivers who are doing the labor of community care, you disincentivize the very people who are volunteering their time and resources to fix the problem. This bill does not represent a practical or compassionate approach to population control. It is a punitive one that targets the most vulnerable animals —and the community members who care for them. respectfully urge you to vote no on Bill 51 and instead invest in scalable, humane solutions such as subsidized spay/neuter programs and managed colony registration. We need policy rooted in care, science, and long-term impact — not cruelty. Thank you for your time and consideration. With aloha, Karen Wang Resident of Kealakekua (District 6) From: marybeth weber Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 4:47 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Oppose Bill 51 Please OPPOSE this bill!! There are clearly better options and the people, whom you work for, are in favor of the alternatives! Marybeth Weber Volcano Village C� i From: Jennifer Welch Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 7:20 PM To: Council Testimony -' c- Subject• Testimony in Strong Opposition to Bill 51 - Preserve TNRM on Hawai'i Island _ c CD —, Aloha Councilmembers,ZZ A I' writin tod y While I understand the desire to address animal overpopulation and public health concerns, this bill misses the mark. By prohibiting the feeding of animals on county property, Bill 51 would effectively dismantle the very programs that are working —the community -led Trap -Neuter -Return -Manage (TNRM) efforts that many of us have supported for years. TNRM is not about encouraging colonies to grow. It's about preventing breeding, reducing populations humanely, and maintaining healthier, more manageable colonies overtime. These programs only work when managed cats are monitored and fed —otherwise, they scatter, suffer, and continue the cycle elsewhere, unchecked. Removing the ability to feed cats on public land does not make the problem disappear —it makes it worse. Cats will starve, roam farther in search of food, get hit by cars, prey on wildlife, and suffer needlessly. This bill does not offer a viable alternative to replace the care volunteers currently provide — not to mention the time, money, and love they've invested into helping the County address this issue without public funding. Supporters of Bill 51 seem to focus on the "feeding" part but miss the "management" that comes with it. The alternative is chaos, cruelty, and a step backward in animal welfare. Please consider the long-term consequences. If passed, this bill will not solve the problem of feral cats — it will only drive it underground and make it unmanageable. We ask that you stand with science, compassion, and your own communities by voting against Bill 51. Mahalo for your time, Jennifer Welch 3146A Makamae Place Kihei, HI 96753 From: Jeanne I Wheeler Sent: Friday, August 1, 2025 6:50 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: NO to Bill 51/ Aug 6, 2025 Aloha Council Members: I write again to ask that you please NOT PASS Bill 51, even with the current amendments. It's very disturbingly unfair to those who are trying to address a difficult island problem... the bill being presented is not a Pono solution - the cats are abandoned, not feral. Please attempt to engage your hearts in this situation & work more closely with those already dedicated/involved with the issue. Mahalo, Jeanne Wheeler - Pahoa, 96778 From: linda willaby Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 8:32 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 oppose Dear County Council, Please do not pass bill 51. It would be inhumane to starve these homeless cats to death. Instead, you should be finding ways to offer more free spay/neuter clinics and enforce spay/neuter of cats and dogs. Veterinarians cost too much and are backed up and unwanted litters happen which people then dump in the parks. Trap spay/neuter release will eventually work in reducing the number of unwanted cats. Private animal rescue groups are bearing most of the weight in the spay/neuter area. The county should be providing more of these clinics. yours truly, (_s C�J u� O (") LCnd,a, WLllc by pahaa, Y"aifl t ea ry From: Sherman Wing Sent: Monday, July 28, 2025 4:59 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Hawaii County Bill 51 - support Aloha Hawaii County Council members, I've been following Bill 51 through social media, so I admit that I may not understand everything related to this bill. In most places there are laws about how many pets you can own. The reasoning is that too many animals can be problematic, and can create a health hazard. So, what is a cat colony and why should we support cat colony. Why are we even at that point. The way I see it is that there are too many irresponsible pet owners. They had too many cats and it's became a problem. So they dump them, abandon them in to the wilds. Their problem of too many cats is now the public's problem. The hardest first step is admitting that you/we have a problem. Feral cats are a harm in Hawaii ecosystem. We have endangered native birds and mammals that can be killed or harmed by cats. We should be protecting the culture and environment of Hawaii.... It's our responsibility. There was an amendment added onto the Bill 51 at the last meeting, Trap -Neuter -Release, TNR. This is a myth I I Cats even after TNR are natural born hunters and killers. I would like the amendment about TNR gutted out of Hawaii Bill 51 and I urge all of you to support the original bill. o � Thank you, _= Sherman Wing Waiakahi'ula (Hawaiian Shores)f -` a -� Sent from my iPhone '� From: Mala Wingerd Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:34 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Testimony Dear Council Members, Although the opposition to Bill 51 often cites that starving un-homed cats (and dogs) is inhumane, many people don't care or see it that way. So, / would like to appeal to your more transactional side. Starving these animals simply does NOT work! Starving un- homed pets does NOT stop them from breeding, as they will simply `hunt' for their food which destroys more birds (both non-native AND native species). AND as a biologist who taught college Biology courses (including environmental) for decades, I can attest that one of the biggest culprits to the destruction of native bird species are rats (and here on the Big Island — mongoose). Cats, especially those not starving, will more often hunt rats because both are nocturnal and it's easier for the cats. Rats go for the eggs which kills a lot more birds! Rodents spread much more disease than cats do. For example: During the 14th century the bubonic plague killed about 2/3 of humans across Europe. The rise of the plague was directly linked to the slaughter of cats. Cats kept the rat populations down, and it was rats that spread most of the plague throughout towns and villages. So, cats continue to help reduce pests like rats and mice even when fed, and less so the killing of wanted species like our bird populations. Cats can help to keep our environment healthier. The groups on Island who manage cat colonies not only feed them (keeping them less "hungry", but they also monitor and maintain the health of their colonies. They trap any new -comers and get them "fixed" and vaccinated against disease. And again, those who oppose the feeding of these cats should remember that a well-fed cat is less likely to hunt, especially during the day when it is hot and more people are around. Which means less hunting of birds. It is well known that in nature, animals that are less hungry hunt less, and since rats and cats are most active at night ... rats become preferred prey which again, also helps the health of our environment. This is why rangers strongly oppose people feeding "wild" animals (ie.: bears, raccoons, etc) because they stop natural hunting and foraging and just go for the easier `human' food. Cats that live on their own, follow the same behaviors as wild animals, and will choose to not hunt more difficult prey, such as birds. Please consider, if you are serious about reducing the numbers of un-homed cats (and dogs) - promote legislation that regulates kitten and puppy mills on Island! Regulate bringing in new pets from breeders. Stop the sale of puppies on the side of the road. Encourage people to adopt healthy, "fixed" pets from shelters and the groups that 1 support and provide spay/neuter clinics as they always have socialized foster babies in need of loving homes. In addition, we need to EDUCATE our communities that our pets are not disposable, but life-long commitments. If they can't keep their pet for life, they shouldn't adopt them! If they move, they need to take their pets with them OR do the work to find a caring home! Stop dumping unwanted pets. People need to be educated about the importance of maintaining their pets by fixing them and keeping them healthy. In Florida, they have mandatory spay/neuter requirements for pets. Even cats must be registered, `fixed', vaccinated, microchipped, and licensed within the state. At least when we lived there for a few years ... this was the policy, and it worked! And finally, back to the original point of "starving" these un-homed cats, it is known and recommended that TNVR (trap, neuter, vaccinate, return) is a successful way to manage un-homed cat (& dog) populations! And remember that the clinic groups on the Big Island also microchip ALL animals they "fix" and treat so they can be tracked. Also, know those who manage colonies, trap mom's w/babies, and once weaned the kittens are taken to socialize them for adoption (not TNVR) ... ALL are "fixed". Some are even sent to loving homes on the mainland when kittens are few in an area. There is consensus among those who understand (not just read what they want to hear) that the Number One best way to reduce un-homed domestic animals from the environment is to spay and neuter them to reduce the cycle of more births than can be sustained. This includes both our pets and homeless cats (and dogs). Starvation does NOT stop breeding in young animals, and to depend on that just makes the situation worse on many levels. I strongly encourage you to learn the biology and science behind TNVR. It is the most humane AND successful way to manage the un- homed cat problem on our Island. Look at Maui for a model of success. Most Sincerely, Mala Wingerd Retired Educator and Biologist 2 From: Susanne Wolf Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 6:01 AM u CD To: Council Testimony_ Cc: Gerdine Markus; admin@hawaiianimaladvocacy.org -':7 Subject: Testimony against Bill 51 C; Der Madam or Sir, a friend of mine alerted me to Bill 51 (banning feeding of cats on County Land) attempting to reduce the island's cat population through starvation. I am shocked and deeply concerned to hear the Hawaii'an Government would take to such cruel and inhumane measures by passing this bill at first reading on full Council. There are plenty of animal welfare organizations as well as individual citizens involved in protecting and rescuing feral cats (and dogs) throughout the Islands. Why make their hard and dedicated work so much harder (and even impossible) in passing this bill?! Cats (well, all animals) are living, feeling beings who are feral because humans have failed them over and over. Instead of supporting already existing animal welfare organizations who do a wonderful job in reducing numbers through neuter, foster and adopting programs, you rather leave innocent beings alone to starve and die from deseases?! I cannot believe you are willing to let that happen. As a German Citizen I am deeply in love with Hawai'i and a frequent visitor to Big Island. I am also a animal welfare advocate and Mum of altogether four beautiful cats who came to me from rescue missions in Greek and Spain. Unfortunately I am not back on the Island in time to testify in opposition to this bill in person but let me tell you I AM in oppsosition to this cruel and totally unnecessary bill. Please consider my letter (from the other side of the world after at[) and the possibly thousends of other Letters and signs of protest against Bill 51 you have already received and reconsider your vote. Follow Maui's lead. Do the right and human thing and find other ways to reduce the cat population. Theses other ways are possible and already set in place depending on the hard work and dedication of Island's citizens and Animal Welfare Organizations. Please support them by funding their good deeds instead of torturing innocent beings to death. I trust in your good hearts. Sending much aloha from Germany, Susanne Wolf From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha Council Members, Lars Wood ruffe Sunday, August 3, 2025 6:53 PM Council Testimony I oppose Bill 51 I'm writing to you in an effort to stop the passing of Bill 51 - what should be known as the criminalization of kindness bill. We all recognize the problems stemming from the overpopulation of feral cats, but this bill is simply not going to work. It is an overly simplistic approach to a complicated problem. It will impose a cruel fate on abandoned animals without addressing those who dump these innocent creatures. And it will persecute those who care. Staving feral cat colonies has been proven to be ineffective. A trap, neuter, release program is the only verified way to decrease the size of cat colonies. It's grounded in science. Please vote NO to Bill 51. There is a better solution. o r-, Mahalo for your work. = Lars Woodruffe, 697 Hoaka Rd, Hilo. 1 From: Gordon Yadao Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:34 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Public Feeding of Cats at County Parks I am against this proposal of prohibiting the public to feed the cats at county parks. I've witnessed the feeding of the cats specifically at Liliuokalani Park for a while now. These cats seem domesticated and not feral. They were abandoned by their owners and through no fault of the cats now live at various parks. If you pass this bill, what would become of the cats? Would you starve your own pets? It's animal cruelty. Please don't pass this bill. Mahalo From: Donie Yamaguchi Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 12:35 PM c-) CD To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony Supporting 51 c-_. Aloha a Councilmembers, w> I am writing in strong opposition to the current form of Bill 51 as amended in Draft 3. While we previously sUaport �&s bill in its original intent —prohibiting the feeding of feral and stray animals on County property —we cannot Wpport the new provision that creates an exemption for "certified community cat caretakers! This amendment undermines the purpose and effectiveness of the bill. It codifies and institutionalizes the continued feeding and maintenance of feral cat colonies on County land —the very practice that this legislation was meant to end. The data is clear: feeding feral animals on public land enables their continued presence, encourages abandonment, and has contributed to ecological degradation, public health threats, and the preventable deaths of endangered species. In April 2024, a nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis within the boundaries of Lili'uokalani Gardens —a location known for daily cat feeding. County staff, including Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have consistently identified animal feeding as a driver of contamination, infrastructure damage, and unsanitary conditions in our public spaces. As Councilmember Kaneali'i-Kleinfelder emphasized, this bill was developed through years of conversations with County personnel across departments, who repeatedly highlighted the burden of maintaining facilities affected by unmanaged feral animal populations. The original draft of Bill 51 responded directly to those concerns with a straightforward, enforceable prohibition. Draft 3 reverses course. It allows a carveout for "certified" feeders —effectively preserving the same problematic status quo that created the need for this bill in the first place. While the amendment attempts to frame this exemption as structured and professionalized, it does nothing to address the biological reality: feeding feral cats sustains colonies, attracts new animals, and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets at these sites is acceptable. This amendment is also in direct conflict with the positions of both the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Hawai'i Invasive Species Council. DLNR has expressed strong support for this bill in its original form, recognizing the need to protect native wildlife and reduce environmental contamination. HISC Resolution 19-2 explicitly discourages Trap -Neuter -Return programs and colony feeding, noting that such activities perpetuate harm to Hawai'i's native species and ecosystems. We cannot support a version of Bill 51 that includes a sanctioned permit system for feral cat feeding. Doing so creates legal ambiguity, undermines enforcement, and places the County in a position of liability for the foreseeable harm caused by continued feral cat presence on public land —including the take of protected species under the Endangered Species Act. We urge the Council to restore the original language of the bill as seen in Draft 2. Do not create exemptions that invalidate the bill's intent. If we are serious about protecting public health, native species, and the integrity of our parks, then we must draw a clear line —feral animal feeding has no place on County property. Mahalo for your time and leadership. Sent from my iPhone From: Penny Yanagisawa Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 8:48 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 Good morning, 1 am against this bill of prohibiting the public to feed the cats at the parks. I am an animal lover and believe that there are other answers to this worldwide issue -not this one as the council is proposing to pass. This is animal cruelty. Please don't pass this bill. Please listen to your heart and conscience. Penny Yanagisawa From: Jill Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 9:32 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Testimony re: bill prohibiting public from feeding feral cats Dear City Council Members, I am writing to oppose the bill of prohibiting the public from feeding cats at the park. I feel the proposed bill to disallow feeding of the cats is cruel as they rely on humans for food and healthcare in which these cats are domestic cats who have been returned to the local population. I ask that you do not pass this bill. It is animal cruelty! Jill YEE PO Box 297 Laupahoehoe, Hawaii 96764 Sent from my iPhone y From: Gary Zahler Sent: Sunday, August 3, 2025 1:25 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Vote NO to cat feeding ban Feeding bans are a waste of taxpayer dollars. Feeding bans punish compassionate caregivers, are difficult to enforce and direct resources away from programs that encourage and support spay/neuter efforts. Feeding Bans are Invasive. A feeding ban criminalizes the behavior of thousands of people who feed animals to humanely care for them. J + Q_ C'-9 -- C_'. Gary & Mary Lynne Zahler Family' —` gmlzahlerCcbgmail com �' tr advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Pat Aarhus From: <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:33 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVElu D Time �- B1 (� JUL iy 2 6y� UL�T� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Pat Aarhus via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Pat Aarhus at konag_idget(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melanie Abbott <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:28 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I To: Council Testimony CVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time ft SUEI M By Date JUL 2 2 795- To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Melanie Abbott via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melanie Abbott at government fan243COprotonmail.com. We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our,`ehana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Tracy Ackerman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tracy Ackerman at istracythere(o)hotmail.com. on behalf of Juliana Adams From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:34 AM COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony OPPOSED CEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY Time�"� BY_ JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Juliana Adams via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Juliana Adams at jsa konaPyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kayla Adkins <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:41 AM To: Council Testimony CUUNI, .. KAWAIII Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kayla Adkins via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kayla Adkins at machine eye21 @mail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marcella Aerts <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time-Qh1 By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results.here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Marcella Aerts via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marcella Aerts at meflower76Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Aguilar <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:24 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA}TAI' I RECEIVE Time Y To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Julie Aguilar via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Aguilar at Julie aguitar icloud.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Aguilar <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:01 AM To: Council Testimony CLERK COUNCOUNTY aI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVXD it 13 gEOF Time � � ' J 00M By C& JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `q,hana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Susan Aguilarvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Aguilar at tdbybsjmzw5377(a)gmx.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marci Ahhee <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:14 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ��EIVE� Time IoBy Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal. plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data., used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Marci Ahhee via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marci Ahhee at marcella.ahhee81(80gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Laura Albaneze <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:16 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED ("IV.) Time fn 40M By U)- Date JUL 2 25 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animat Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Laura Albaneze via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Laura Albaneze at lauraalbaneze(a)aot com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sheila Mae Alegam <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:01 AM Co"_Tr'TY To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ON&WI BY—_ Date d111V 9 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sheila Mae Alegam via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sheila Mae Alegam at sheitamaealeg_am a yahoo.com. advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Biancarosa Alfieri From: <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:45 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED PSCEIVED Time �iT� Date I WUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Biancarosa Alfieri via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Biancarosa Alfieri at biancarosa alfieriCo)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sarah Alfonso <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:45 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAKAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time q By���� Date 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: r. Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sarah Alfonso via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sarah Alfonso at sarahalfonso99@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jeanne Alford <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Subject: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:30 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED1 COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAV I IVED �,� Time BY U� V To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're Lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jeanne Alford via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jeanne Alford at.*eannealford(cbmsn.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joyce Allbritain <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:26 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time (� S Ey To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County CouncilDate: JUL 2 2 9095 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Joyce Allbritain via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joyce Allbritain atjoyceallbritain1209@9mail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Allen <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HA*AI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED JU Time By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohanp BEFORE.,pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wild life We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amy Allen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Allen at abbasbabie(@hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Benjamin Allison <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:38 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HpUTal , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED EIVEDD Time l �-t O By t Date JU Z 2 2 025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support,our,�ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or. low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Benjamin Allison via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Benjamin Allison at skin_edge25@aot.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Alonzo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ACEIVED-� Time 4 j 014 By Date JUL 2 2 202; To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by MaryAlonzo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please replyto Mary Alonzo at maryalonzo43(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amandatavarez6k@gmail.com Shanaman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:28 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: - Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I _RECEIVED Timeq BY--(A- Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent byAmandatavarez6k@gmail.com Shanaman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amandatavarez6k@gmail.com Shanaman at inurse52()verizon.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ameliadolgin@gmail.com Costanzo <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:37 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF NAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By Date_ JUL 2 2 20 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent byAmetiadolgin@gmait.com Costanzo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ameliadolgin@gmail.com Costanzo at stephanie.Lcostanzo(cbgmail com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christine Anderson <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:59 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI Y I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 3Qi� By__(Al Date 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Christine Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christine Anderson at anderson.christine(a)me.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Anderson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:58 AM c ; :JERK To: Council Testimony coot- HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ;: iVED Time I' �V_art, $y_ JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karen Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Anderson at bett ryboopified@aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Malinda Anderson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �-RECEIVED �� Time J IJi Y- By T JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `olana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Malinda Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Malinda Anderson at glowingmoonlitwaves@hotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Phillip Anderson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:09 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED OF HAMAI y I RECEIVED Tiae I (_ By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Phillip Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Phillip Anderson at positive lover79C��rotonmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sadhika Anderson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:59 AM To: Council Testimony CUUNIY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSEDTime CEIVED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2125 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats the only population -control approach that These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow,Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sadhika Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sadhika Anderson at sadhikaanderson(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sean Anderson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:12 AM COUNT]i CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI,I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED rn Time � 1 BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sean Anderson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sean Anderson at sean98(@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Janet Andrea <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:28 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I `' RECEIVED Time - gVIM By V1)C Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Janet Andrea via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please replyto Janet Andrea at janetlynandrea2524C�mail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Irene Andrews <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Time FU By� Date JUL 2 2 LUZ5 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuteana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Irene Andrews via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Irene Andrews at irenekona5253Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kim Angel <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:54 AM CCC'NTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Time gY__��__ Date L 2 2 tju-,j To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kim Angel via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kim Angel at angelmd9900hotmaiLcom. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Aprecio <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:03 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED i� � �� I �� Time Date JUL 2 2 2125 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Linda Aprecio via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Aprecio at pureskin808(si)9mail.com. We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Gretchen Archibald via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gretchen Archibald at gch221 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of James Arlington <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:26 AM COUNTY of HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony EIVED Time By_ Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by James Arlington via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to James Arlington at tcisot(c-Ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Arlington <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:26 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED^ Time 1 µS By r To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Linda Arlington via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Arlington at linda.j.arling_ton gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Adam Arnold <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:08 AM W COUNTY Gr' Uj A IiM]►I' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVSD Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Tiae By JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Adam Arnold via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Adam Arnold at particular1962Pmsn.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nancy Arroyo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:37 AM �,nrr*.T1 t� cz,Fux To: Council Testimony COUNTY Oil PAWAI r Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED qJ E1vD � Time By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION i We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Nancy Arroyo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nancy Arroyo at arroyonancy31 yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Asirifi <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:04 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERKCOUNTY OF w►*J►I I i Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUI. 2 � I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Mary Asirifi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Asirifi at murfortytwo aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Audrey Atkins <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Time RECEIVID Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Audrey Atkins via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Audrey Atkins at atkins audrey@aol.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mark Austin <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:42 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time Blynn[ ._ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Mark Austin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mark Austin at maustin69Cc_protonmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mark Axelson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:11 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time _,:,QM i By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and alreadyyielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Mark Axelson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mark Axelson From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Zoee Awai <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:24 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (�EI'M AI I Time I V� By7 CR_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council• Date_ i `JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goat is to protect native wildlife. But Bill. 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Zoee Awai via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Zoee Awai at zoeepearl@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sharry Ayala <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:09 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CI.RRK KAJAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1' e0 , By___W_ 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana:BEFORE pets are surrendered: 4:e Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sharry Ayala via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sharry Ayala at sharryayala@gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jen B <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:26 AM Cl;i.'S'Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time .-�By Date JUL 2 2 2025�� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area[ plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohapa BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —white protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jen B via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jen B at orangerentalsmauiCpgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Bade <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:52 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI -I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time L[ � Q AA By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date dUL 2 Z Z025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amy Bade via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Bade at 67kiheiC0gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Baker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM CuuN.�s �,uERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HATAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED YY'' RECEIVZD ` Time 0 C� By� JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wild life We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amy Baker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Baker at amys8rescuesCcbyahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Chuck Barker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:30 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED , IVED \,�}_ BY—*— Time ■, �;j� — Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Chuck Barker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chuck Barker at chuck kuLeana(a-)gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Adrienne Baldwin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time YN By - Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oharra°BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Adrienne Baldwin via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Adrienne Baldwin at baldwinadrienneC�gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nancy Baldwin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:48 AM COUNTY OF HANAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Time By�_ Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Nancy Baldwin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nancy Baldwin at nancy baldwinCa)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maii-actionbutton.org on behalf of Jeanette Balino-agustin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:40 AM CC %_+'i'Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I i --o�IVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time_-_�' B Date At. 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ol'ana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jeanette Balino-agustin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jeanette Balino-agustin at jbalinoCdblive.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paul Bangert <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time '3UI By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Atameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our ;Gana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animats Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Paul Bangert via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paul Bangert at paulb005@hawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mandy Bannister <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time U' BYE_ Date Hill 2 2 202 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Mandy Bannister via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mandy Bannister at snoopyfan82(@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Henry Banquer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:44 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVE Time ) o By Date A 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONGH Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `Qhana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Henry Banquer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Henry Banquer at hbanquer()earthlink.net. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Diana Barrantes <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HATAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time I I ��� � EI D� Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Diana Barrantes via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Diana Barrantes at diana barrantes@zoo-metrics.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lorraine Barrie <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RECEIVED Time HAWAI' I r. By Date A1111 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 1 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lorraine Barrie via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lorraine Barrie at lbarriePmac.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michelle Barrios <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:19 AM c .'- � c AWA COUNTY OF riAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time— 1tr By�_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane,methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Michelle Barrios via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michelle Barrios at mbarrios143Ca)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Barthel <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time JUL 2 2 202 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our��ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Mary Barthel via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Barthel at maryryan barthel(o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Keira Basenback <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:59 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I IVED Time AM By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 L`025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Keira Basenbackvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Keira Basenback at keirabasenback3Ca)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leanne Baskin <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:15 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time 1-gg3n gKyLQ&_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date SOL t '3 � I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats the only population -control approach that These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Leanne Baskin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leanne Baskin From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deborah Bates <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:42 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ! u L 2 2 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Deborah Bates via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deborah Bates at those2098Cc0outlook.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paula Beamer <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI T I RECEIVE Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time--�i By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Paula Beamer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paula Beamer at paulabeameragmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deanna Beasley <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:47 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED ` Time 1300" By -Q- JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `alma BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Deanna Beasley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deanna Beasley at deannabeasley66 gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Madison Beck <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:06 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ,RECEIVED /' Subject: Time T `T"-�&*V' BY vQ Date JUL 2.2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Madison Beckvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Madison Beck at oirclean(a)9mail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennifer Ben-dayan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:33 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI,I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 7 C$IVED Time 1 JULQM ByR To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Uate � 2 2 202:1 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jennifer Ben-dayan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennifer Ben-dayan at iennie.bendayan gmail com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Chantel Bender <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:06 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF U4I v I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVS" Tiae�j By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Atameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support ou'r `o*rara BEFORE 'pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL workingtogetherto roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Chantel Bender via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chantel Bender at chantelrbender(o-)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shanna Benoit <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:14 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I 0p�4VRECEIVED � Time 01 BYR To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Shanna Benoit via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shanna Benoit at shannnaaries(a)yahoo.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Daria Benton <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:25 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNIZ CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED 1. Time LAIG .n B �L Y Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and alreadyyielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Daria Benton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Daria Benton at bentondariaPyahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bella Berger <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:15 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVUD- Time 11' Q ` By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oh-ana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Bella Berger via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bella Berger at bellab1997Ca)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Aranka Berencsi <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:06 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERKCOUNTY Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED OF HAWAI T i RECEIVED Time0111By CAL 20 JUL Z 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai,i County Council: Date Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Aranka Berencsi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Aranka Berencsi at berencsi(a) live. com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tracey Berliner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:32 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTI` CLERK COUNTYY Qr IiAWAI' I VED %me � �7talV►Igl, W\ to JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tracey Berliner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tracey Berliner at doesong(a)live.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Brittanee Bernal <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:38 AM _LERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED (04 By Time Jhi U. --pit JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our"ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Brittanee Bernal via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brittanee Bernal at brittaneebernat(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Wendy Bernier <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:44 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED %� Time By of Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost. spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Wendy Bernier via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Wendy Bernier at wendybernier(o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ashlie Berube <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:47 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF EIVED Time t S J(A HAWAI' I By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 Z I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ashlie Berube via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ashlie Berube at aberube90Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sara Bhonsale <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:28 AM Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF C?.EP_K HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED 1 ff Time '1 •By_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 LULD I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sara Bhonsale via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sara Bhonsale at sara mindsets.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paul Billinson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:16 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED BY 1 Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Paul Billinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paul Billinson From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deborah Biondolillo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ��, :i4��EIB D� Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Deborah Biondolillo via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deborah Biondolillo at biondolillohawaii((,)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Elizabeth Bishop <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:40 AM C ,,r y,y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAKAI , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED I RECEIVED Time Al 41D pn B Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Elizabeth Bishop via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elizabeth Bishop at lisaperrone71 CcOgmail com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of James Bishop <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED a JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low: -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our `ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by James Bishop via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to James Bishop at bishop-'()yandex.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kendra Bitzig <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:24 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI'IRECEIVED Time 1T4 B �- JUL 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kendra Bitzigvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kendra Bitzig at kbitzig(c-Ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Barbara Blackwood <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF X44AI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIvtD Time ,M EK Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support ourofhana BEFORE pets are surrendered: iT . Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51 Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. our'ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Barbara Blackwood via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Barbara Blackwood at barbara bb((:bcomcast.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lea Block <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:00 AM To: Council Testimony Zvi t+�t Uk hAnAl lI Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time lg 5 gy D�, -2- To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date i JUL 2 202255-.-- I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Atameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lea Block via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lea Block at leandrablock(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dionne Bonner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:15 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY ci.�.xx COUNTY OF KAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVtD Ti1Q_ By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025, call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oha.na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Dionne Bonner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dionne Bonner at Dionne454BC�gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michael Booker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:47 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY OF HAWAI'I �� ii C•EIVED � Time `1 � BY Date,j ;JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Michael Booker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michael Booker at mdbM(EbaoLcom. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kris Borley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:42 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK �AI'I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA RECEIVED Time aM By C& To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill. 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kris Borley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kris Borley at cleocharlie2013Pgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tina Bounds <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF K4TAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED i _RE EIVED Tine I I X N� By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohona BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tina Bounds via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tina Bounds at care4petservices(o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Therese Bova <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:48 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED TimeAVam By Date-1 JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Therese Bova via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Therese Bova at tbova95Ccbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Raymond Bowen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:06 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED _ Time _ By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohena BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Raymond Bowen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Raymond Bowen at total _military51 (c-ohotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessie Brader <advocate @mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:45 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI I IVED* ASIRFBy J1J Time Eff To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jessie Brader via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessie Brader at gov c- bestofhawaii.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jana Bradford <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED r, RECEIVED Time V�— q Ely C& Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 1 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jana Bradford via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jana Bradford at Tana E-04anabradford.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Charles Bradley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:16 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF FiA1AplI' I tt ;r� CEIV1rD Time 11 1.hl By JUL' 2 2 2� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date w� I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our,;,ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Charles Bradley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Charles Bradley at call.news(cOgmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Katrina Bray <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:33 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I t IVED Time , By HP Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE if enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Katrina Bray via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Katrina Bray at robnkat2(())sbcglobaLnet. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Brayton <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:55 AM To: Council Testimony cou.N � Y �;LERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ��r By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jessica Brayton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Brayton at rudyresidence(c-Oyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Reagan Breen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:30 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK ' COUNTY O I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED I ED Time By_ Date JUL 2 z 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Reagan Breen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Reagan Breen at reaganmbreen(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Brice Brice <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:50 AM covhr'� ` CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF , HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED c IVED Time J BY— JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Brice Brice via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brice Brice at jahjahbinksca)yahoo.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lauren Bright <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:51 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF SA*AI'I RECEIVED i !' me 11' � j By�_ JUL 2 2 2025 e I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Lauren Bright via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lauren Bright at lauren.bright(a-)zoho.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kellen Brockman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:31 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF RANAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED �RECEIVED- Tiae To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 Zoe I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oha,BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kellen Brockman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kellen Brockman at misskellenCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kerry Bromberg <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:06 AM COUNTY CLERKTo: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED f�� RECEIVED� Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 202% I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kerry Bromberg via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kerry Bromberg at kesconn(o)mac.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tanner Bromberg <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:20 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ( i BY _ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tanner Bromberg via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tanner Bromberg at tannerbooCOicloud.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Beth Broome <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:25 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Beth Broome via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Beth Broome at killerben1(cbyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jacqueline Brown <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:27 AM To: Council Testimony _ L COUNTY OF HAVAAMAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time � gY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oha.na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our'ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Jacqueline Brown via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jacqueline Brown at cool entire96COyahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lee Baron <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:59 AM CvUN1'Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED f RECEIVED Time 1 Date f sllll � 2 �A�------ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area I plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Lee Baron via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lee Baron at bandeclawing(o)gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marcus Brown <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY OF HAVAI'I kECEIVEDTime (G44S__aM By CA Date J' 1L 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oh"alna BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Marcus Brown via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marcus Brown at mbrown60(Ebyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Brown <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:45 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time �IVED By _W- JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Melissa Brown via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Brown at lissycouture(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Samuel Brown <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time1 BY `;ate_ JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Samuel Brown via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Samuel Brown at i love still70(a)outlook.com. From: sheila indamascus <sheilaindamascus@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:59 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 COUNTY RECEIVEDOFHA AI' I Dear Council Members Date_'�'� 1� From me you're going to hear somethingyou have not heard before. About a week ago my husband found at the Hilo transfer station next to a recycle bin a tiny kitten only days old. Her eyes and ears were still closed.She was crying. He brought her home and cared for her, giving her food and a box with a heat pad under it. He gave her a toy stuffed lamb that was fluffy and she snuggled up next to it and slept. The next day she passed away. After speaking to a friend I realized that she probably had not been placed Lovingly on the asphalt. It was more likely that she had been thrown from a car window. Based on where she was found, I believe someone attempted to throw her into a recycle bin but missed and she fell on the asphalt. This newborn felt pain. She could also feel fear and loss, the loss of her mother's warmth and her siblings' life. This is where we live. Passing Bill 51 wilt further the culture of cruelty. When leaders indicate values, the public feels empowered to act on them in any way they please. What we need instead is support for compassion, even if it is just publicly acknowledged. People are feeding and fixing. My husband has fixed well over 60 cats in the past year. This is a small number compared to what people elsewhere are doing, but we are limited by our health and access to equipment. There is a pilot program for appropriate feeding and fixing in coordination with the DLNR, which this bill will kill. You can choose to be compassionate or to further a culture in which people dispose of cats in any way they please. Passing Bill 51 will make a statement about what kind of culture you wish this island to have. Sheila Brown 306 Mohouli Street Hilo HI 96720 r From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tamara Brown <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:09 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I:gbdM ByC_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tamara Brown via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tamara Brown From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of William Brown <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Subject: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:42 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY COUNTY OF IVED Time-� CLERK HAWAI' I BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date , JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by William Brown via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to William Brown at wbrown9752Ca)F-rmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michelle Bryan <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:20 AM -OUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony WUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 7 BYC6-) .)ate JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Michelle Bryan via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michelle Bryan at michelte22@mait.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ann Buchanan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Subject: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:14 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAJrAI , I RECEIVED Time r--- By Date 11 j 1 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ann Buchanan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ann Buchanan at ann buchanan(a)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cherry Bucholz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:28 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVE TimeL By Date �tJl_ 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cherry Bucholz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cherry Bucholz at cbucholzCa)hawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michelle Buhler <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:48 AM Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time ;� cEIVED By_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL � � 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Michelle Buhler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michelle Buhler at michelleb(a)harriganleyh.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Suzanne And Judy Buirgy-wieder <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA$&I' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time � � $Y_ ro ��..- Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: - I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Suzanne And Judy Buirgy-wieder via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Suzanne And Judy Buirgy-wieder at sbuirgyCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Arlene Buklarewicz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:43 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAKAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED i RECEIVED U Time t to BY� JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Arlene Buklarewicz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Arlene Buklarewicz at volcanonurse@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stacey Burge <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:13 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony' COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 10, 40R By� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ? idUL 2 2 2025, I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `o.hana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-costyspay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats the only population -control approach that These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Stacey Burge via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stacey Burge at stacey burgeCOouttook.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Barbara Burger <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:59 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time (� t✓j(►/j BY__ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Barbara Burger via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Barbara Burger at barbieburgerC��ahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Faith Burkhardt <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM couv l r Lr:x To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (RECEIVED Time3 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our"ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Faith Burkhardt via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Faith Burkhardt at cheffaithbPyahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christopher Butler <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:25 AM .I CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time [ By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai i County Council: Date UL 2 9 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Christopher Butler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christopher Butler at cbutler52C0zoho.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Cabingas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:53 AM _1 LRK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED l; Time By�_ Date JUL 2 2 202 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause — not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amy Cabingas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Cabingas at cabingasamyC�gmaill.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Molly Calcutt <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:14 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA*Aj v I RECEIVED Time l ;� _ ,y To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuteana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: . .'k>, Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Molly Calcutt via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Molly Calcutt at molly.burke9(q)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Constance Caldwell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 101149ft By_(k__ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our, Nana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Constance Caldwell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Constance Caldwell at conncald(a)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jodi Calkins <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:59 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (( RECEIVED Time l By _ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jodi Calkins via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jodi Calkins at jodillamaCq)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Campbell <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:18 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED i RECEIVED Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: FN Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Julie Campbell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Campbell at iuliabelle47()att net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lyn Campogan <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:45 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time.., vv,Y,,, By_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 22 �2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our `ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Lyn Campogan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lyn Campogan at tyn.campogan(c-Ogmail com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Andrea Campos <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:51 AM To: Council Testimony C,)UNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAWAI' I � I j C�E:IVEDUP Time � LLIY ,11111w/It By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date uL 2 2 L"uL5 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Andrea Campos via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Andrea Campos at flaquita ix netcom.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paul Campos <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time L --4am Date i ?..�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause — not just symptoms and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: They're backed by data, used nationwide, Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Paul Campos via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paul Campos at ehxiidlg578 hotmail.com. COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI`I DIVED Time�� , Bill #51 Testimony from K.T. Cannon -Eger of Hilo, Hawaii Tuesday, July 8, 2025 At first glance, feeding abandoned cats appears to be a compassionate act. Upon a closer took over the course of several years, I find the act of feeding abandoned cats in ULF uokalani Gardens costly, dangerous and insensitive. My name is K.T. Cannon -Eger. I have resided in Hawai ' i for 50 years. I now live in Hilo and am a park user who frequently volunteers. I am offering this testimony as a Hilo citizen, not on behalf of any group. I have two rescue cats in my home: one was dumped at the end of my driveway 11 years ago and one was adopted from the Kea' au Animal Shelter 10 years ago. They are neutered and chipped mates who are current on all their vet visits. I am not anti -cat. I am anti irresponsible behavior that costs our County and endangers both residents and wildlife. People currently putting food out for abandoned cats do not stick around to observe the cats. They leave multiple plastic containers scattered throughout the park, littering daily. The food attracts fire ants, mongoose, and endangered nene. Cats are the only carriers of toxoptasmosis, known to have killed nene in the park and also known to be a cause of death to endangered turtles and monk seals. In humans, toxoplasmosis poses a health risk especially to pregnant women. Cats scratch on wood, a common stretching exercise. When done on the walls of the tea house, such scratching leads to expensive repairs. When done on the trunks of trees, damage is done to botanical assets. I support this bill. Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony, K.T. Cannon -Eger Bill #51 Testimony from K.T. Cannon -Eger of Hilo, Hawaii Tuesday, July 22, 2025 for the hearing before the Hawai' i County Council on Wednesday, July 23 in Kona Thank you for this opportunity to provide further testimony on Bill 51. 1 am including several photographs to illustrate my remarks of July 8 and today. typical feeding stations in 2017 — extruded foam plates have been banned from use in County parks. Feeding station 2024— plastic dishes are left behind daily. Littering is a $100 fine per occasion. Has that ever been applied to this situation? In additiontoattracting abandoned cats to the food dishes, mongoose, mynah birds, nene, fire ants, loose dogs, and other critters are attracted to the food. Cat scratch damage to the tea house Cat scratch damage to trees in the park Feeding abandoned animals on County property is not a compassionate act. The damage to a critical habitat is too grave to allow this to continue. Thankyou, K.T. Cannon -Eger Hilo, HI From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of William Cantrell <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: _ ..L"K COUNTY OF HAMAI'I EC�nEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill. 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're Lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our.`ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wild life We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by William Cantrell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to William Cantrell at wcantreMalyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sheri Caron <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:45 AM COUNTS CLERK To: Council Testimony Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA�IAI I I Subject: 0:qI BrQ Time ?1(10 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohgna BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sheri Caron via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sheri Caron at scaron4113Calaol.com. on behalf of Neil Carter From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:28 AM COUNTY CLERK TO: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HANAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED _ RECEIVED Time �� �iQPt By Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Neil Carter via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Neil Carter at finish moment29Ca)live.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joshua Carvalho <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:46 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I +IVED Time BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date &L 2 Z 2023 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and alreadyyielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Joshua Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joshua Carvalho at carv.josh 9mail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Carvalho <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:39 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED -�IVED Time BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karen Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Carvalho at karcatvPgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Keisha Carvalho <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:52 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ''OUNTY COUNTY OF IVED Time El CLERK H,:WAI' I BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL > 2 �U25 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Keisha Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Keisha Carvalho at Purrfectlyprtt (cOgmail.com. From: Nicole CarvaIho <nicolencarvalho201 1@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:14 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 RECEIVED Time IWti By,..,._ Date l To the Hawaii county council members, I'm writing to ask that you oppose Bill 51 in regards to making it illegal to feed the stray animals here. This bill will lead to the cats starving and dying in inhumane ways. Mahalo, Nicole From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Candice Cassato <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:46 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HANAI v I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time C Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `,ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Candice Cassato via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Candice Cassato at cand47(d)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Daniel Castillo <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HANAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �� By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date J1112 2 2025 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oharia BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Daniel Castillo via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Daniel Castillo at daniel castillo(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tyler Castro <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:14 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: COUNTY OF HAWAI � i Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 10 �,�6w To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date_, 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tyler Castro via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tyler Castro at wonder.too@aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Scott Cate <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:06 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I f _RECEIVED Time ��KA1 BY _ Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Scott Cate via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Scott Cate at scott.m.cate(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kevin Chatfield <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:27 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK y To: COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IqsRECEIVED Time- I ;;' L ._. e 11II 2 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Dat2 025 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kevin Chatfield via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kevin Chatfield at konakevin1 (a)gmail com. advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kenneth Chandler From: <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ( IM By_CE_ 'JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kenneth Chandler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kenneth Chandler at kenneth14Ca_protonmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Chang <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:24 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK TO: y COUNTY OF HAVAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Timejj gyL_a_ Date_ JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Susan Chang via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Chang at crazy4aspirin yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tatiana Chauvet-martin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVW'i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1tSCEIVED Time I6 By� Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tatiana Chauvet-martin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tatiana Chauvet-martin at anapavahine(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paul Campos <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI v I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED ( � Time � "� ON) U By l Date 1111 ') 9 ')A A ' To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Paul Campos via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paul Campos at ehxjjdlg578Ca)hotmail.com. COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI`I IZXED Time k' 4T Bill #51 Testimony from K.T. Cannon -Eger of Hilo, Hawaii Tuesday, July 8, 2025 At first glance, feeding abandoned cats appears to be a compassionate act. Upon a closer look over the course of several years, I find the act of feeding abandoned cats in Lili' uokalani Gardens costly, dangerous and insensitive. My name is K.T. Cannon -Eger. I have resided in Hawai' i for 50 years. I now live in Hilo and am a park user who frequently volunteers. I am offering this testimony as a Hilo citizen, not on behalf of any group. I have two rescue cats in my home: one was dumped at the end of my driveway 11 years ago and one was adopted from the Kea' au Animal Shelter 10 years ago. They are neutered and chipped males who are current on all their vet visits. I am not anti -cat. I am anti irresponsible behavior that costs our County and endangers both residents and wildlife. People currently putting food out for abandoned cats do not stick around to observe the cats. They leave multiple plastic containers scattered throughout the park, littering daily. The food attracts fire ants, mongoose, and endangered nene. Cats are the only carriers of toxoplasmosis, known to have killed nene in the park and also known to be a cause of death to endangered turtles and monk seals. In humans, toxoplasmosis poses a health risk especially to pregnant women. Cats scratch on wood, a common stretching exercise. When done on the walls of the tea house, such scratching leads to expensive repairs. When done on the trunks of trees, damage is done to botanical assets. I support this bill. Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony, K.T. Cannon -Eger Bill #51 Testimony from K.T. Cannon -Eger of Hilo, Hawaii Tuesday, July 22, 2025 for the hearing before the Hawai' i County Council on Wednesday, July 23 in Kona Thank you for this opportunity to provide further testimony on Bill 51. 1 am including several photographs to illustrate my remarks of July 8 and today. typical feeding stations in 2017 - extruded foam plates have been banned from use in County parks. Feeding station 2024 - plastic dishes are left behind daily. Littering is a $100 fine per occasion. Has that ever been applied to this situation? In addition to attracting abandoned cats to the food dishes, mongoose, mynah birds, nene, fire ants, loose dogs, and other critters are attracted to the food. Cat scratch damage to the tea house Cat scratch damage to trees in the park Feeding abandoned animals on County property is not a compassionate act. The damage to a critical habitat is too grave to allow this to continue. Thankyou, K.T. Cannon -Eger Hilo, HI From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of William Cantrell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAMAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 104 6R By JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our.`ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by William Cantrell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to William Cantrell at wcantrett(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sheri Caron <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:45 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HADTAI' I CEIVED 1� =q5 cim CR Time By JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sheri Caron via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sheri Caron at scaron4113@aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Neil Carter <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:28 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HANAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Q� By � Time Date �2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oliana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Neil Carter via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Neil Carter at finish_ mom ent29C0Live. com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joshua Carvalho <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:46 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF l" I Time HAWAI' I By BY ML 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Joshua Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joshua Carvalho at carv.joshCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Carvalho <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:39 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUN°VY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �IVED Time By � Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wild life We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karen Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Carvalho at karcatv(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Keisha Carvalho <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:52 AM To: Council Testimony �ovr'rr CQ NTY GF CLERK HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVIED By Time JUL 2 2 2U25 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Keisha Carvalho via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Keisha Carvalho at PurrfectLyprtty(@gmaiL.com. From: Nicole Carvalho <nicolencarvalho201 1@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:14 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 RECEIVED Time II Q BZUZY- --�.-� Date To the Hawaii county council members, I'm writing to ask that you oppose Bill 51 in regards to making it illegal to feed the stray animals here. This bill will lead to the cats starving and dying in inhumane ways. Mahalo, Nicole 1 From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Candice Cassato <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:46 AM COUNTX CLERK To: Council Testimony ,COUNTY QF HA►rAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time WY . `^Q JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `,ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Candice Cassato via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Candice Cassato at cand47(d-)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Daniel Castillo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time `30By__(J�_ Date 1111 2_2 �025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oharta BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Daniel Castillo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Daniel Castillo at daniel_castilloPgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tyler Castro <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:14 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time oIVED W-9L_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date AIL 1 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area I plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: F] Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tyler Castro via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tyler Castro at wonder.too(cbaol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Scott Cate <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:06 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1 �i�M__ BY_Cg_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Scott Cate via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Scott Cate at scott m.cateCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kevin Chatfield <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:27 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED - ,RE,CEIVED 'n Time— -dam To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date_ JU 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Kevin Chatfield via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kevin Chatfield at konakevin1009mail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kenneth Chandler <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:03 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAVAI'I RECEIVED Time 'JUL 2 2 202 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our`ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wild life We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kenneth Chandler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kenneth Chandler at kenneth14()arotonmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Chang <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAIVAI , I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1 /) _ By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Susan Chang via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Chang at crazy4aspirin(cb_._yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tatiana Chauvet-martin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF EUUV 13: Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Timey Icy � RECEIVED� Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tatiana Chauvet-martin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tatiana Chauvet-martin at anapavahine(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Micheal Chavez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:18 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF K&"11I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our"ofibh'6 BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us —our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Micheal Chavez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Micheal Chavez at chavezmC50vahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lauren Cheong <advocate @mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:04 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'2 To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 7:4Gavn By C Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lauren Cheong via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lauren Cheong at laurensemisweet@gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lei Chock <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED `j CEIVED Time I �j , �_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our-`ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: , .> At Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lei Chock via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lei Chock at teiright(a)gmail com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ashley Christensen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:26 AM To: Council Testimony Co COUNTY CLERK LINTY DF1WAI'I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ashley Christensen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ashley Christensen at paradisefound47Ca)yahoo com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jeanine Chun <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:17 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAV I RECEIVED Time BYQL_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others— ALL.working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jeanine Chun via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jeanine Chun at jchun1 yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lianne Chung <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:32 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I --� �IV Time � By�l .� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lianne Chungvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lianne Chung at peachcobbter66(@gmail.com. From: advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org on behalf of Samuel Chung <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:50 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CvuNii COUNTY OF +. V ffi EIVED Time i_I ERK HAWAI' I By.�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ,A 2 2 N I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats the only population -control approach that These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Samuel Chungvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Samuel Chung at scla808(cbhotmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sandra Clark <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I IVED Time , -1, By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date., JUL 2 2 2U25 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — white protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sandra Clark via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sandra Clark at cassclark1948(o)gmail com. From: advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org on behalf of Haven Clayton <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:25 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAIII RECEIVED TimQ---1--�l�L By Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Flaven Clayton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Flaven Clayton at flavenclayton gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Cleveland <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:34 AM To: Council TestimonyCOUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �e me4 � uI Y i BY to JUL 2 2 2025 - To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Melissa Cleveland via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Cleveland at melissa k cleveland@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of David Coffey <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:23 AM CO?JNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �{� Time 0- cm By " Date n n 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by David Coffey via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David Coffey at coffeyd(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joel Cole <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:33 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time fR(E�^CEIVED W-4� l BY Date TA- 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Joel Cole via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joel Cole at ioelcole aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Larry Cole <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:24 AM COUhI �F< To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED (Q Time _& BY lives Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Larry Cole via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Larry Cole at larryc a gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rachel Cole <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:19 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAbwAI' I RECEIVED Time (R To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 202�- I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our'ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Rachel Cole via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rachel Cole at i love yet28(a)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ian Coleman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:54 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Tiae 1�300 RX Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: - -- I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ian Coleman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ian Coleman at coleman65@hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Denise Colgrove <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:04 AM r. To: Council Testimony COUNTY or HAWArI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time BY. `� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Denise Colgrove via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Denise Colgrove at den ise. colgrove yahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Collins <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:52 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED � RECEIVED Time 1049(10) By�_ Date JUL 2 2 203 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Susan Collins via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Collins at yogahead1 C80hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Erin Colon <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:46 AM COUNTY CLERK To• Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAW AI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED $ECEIVED Time I�m By� Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Erin Colon via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Erin Colon at elinaluisCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Comfort <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Subject: Time�g� BY_ DateJUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Melissa Comfortvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Comfort at macomfort(d)att.net. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Him Comer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:21 AM CoUNTi CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 7 41- a 1 By Ca JUL 2 2 203— Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Him Comer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Him Comer at katelynisme808(d)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leslee Cook <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 7:46 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ^� RECEIVED Time 1 By r Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuteana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Leslee Cookvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leslee Cook at drag_onlady3Ca)pm me. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leslie Cook <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:58 AM COUNTY (-LF x To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time �_ BY,11� Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Leslie Cookvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leslie Cook at cookl001(6hawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Liz Cook <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:16 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I /►RECEIVED Time `I % By'"JV\— To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL. 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats the only population -control approach that These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Liz Cookvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Liz Cook advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christine Cooper From: <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:17 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time IouV6&I By... JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Christine Cooper via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christine Cooper at ccooper@hotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Teresa Cooper <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:53 AM c')! irrr)( CLERK To• Council Testimony • couwrt., OF HAW' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED p RECEIVED Time 1vwffiL BY� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai,i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oharlp,BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Teresa Cooper via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Teresa Cooper at tcooper31 Co)msn.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tanya Copeland <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:56 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Bill 51 - STRONGLY OCOUNTY OF gAWAI' I OPPOSED Subject: � � IVED Time BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 202; I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Tanya Copeland via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tanya Copeland at infoC�bronxcommunitycats.org. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Cornwell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �!gSQM By, Date ,}u1. 'L 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification toots Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Donna Cornwell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ghana. Please reply to Donna Cornwell at don nases27(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Ruth Corpus <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAKAI' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED QCEIVED Subject: RE Time By_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana.BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Ruth Corpus via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ruth Corpus at rcorpus403(c)9mail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Liz Costigan <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:36 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED , rgEIVED n� Subject: Time J By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Liz Costigan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Liz Costigan at aearlyPaol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sara Cowles <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:00 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ,y RECEIVED Time ItJ 1Qi{`r By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ,jl_1 2 2 2025 1 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sara Cowles via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sara Cowles at geysers(a)hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Matt Cox <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:15 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF M4#AI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time (---�= 1— By rk To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oha.na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Matt Cox via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Matt Cox at mattcox 94Ca)hotmail.co.uk. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bonner Cracraft <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA>AI v i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED l� -'ORE EIB D Time l 'i CIO y Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `o.ha.na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Bonner Cracraft via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bonner Cracraft at bonner7773(c-Ogmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stephanie Crane <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:53 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED m Time gam Z ttl\ Date _im 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Stephanie Crane via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stephanie Crane at el8i8le(6)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Anthony Crawford <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:25 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �a RECEIVED Time U � By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Anthony Crawford via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Anthony Crawford at anthony crawford(o-)hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paul Crepeau <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:57 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By ---- Date f 'JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Paul Crepeau via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paul Crepeau at sweetchildofthesea(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@rnaiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Josh Cruz <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:52 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Bill 51 -SCOUNTY OF HAWAI � I STRONGLY OPPOSED Subject: RECEIVED Time 0 Lvs:Qn iy a&_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date .1111 2 2 2125 1 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Josh Cruz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Josh Cruz at cruzj210@fttmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jason Cuevas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:46 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I IVED Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: JULBy Date JUL 2 2 202-3 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wild life We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jason Cuevas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jason Cuevas at.*ason.phantomforce.cuevasOO(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rick Cuevas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:47 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI'I -� �IV �� Time By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: JUL 2 2 2025 Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. [oil IZ01•1ItII11000a\NiIFl•011aT•70 � : • • We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Rick Cuevas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rick Cuevas at captaincuest(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Esmeralda Curtis <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:38 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony CEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time ZY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Esmeralda Curtis via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Esmeralda Curtis at 3sm3ralda99@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amber Dalrymple <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:52 AM To: Council Testimony COUNT t CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI'I TimeRECEIVED By�_ �JL �n,� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Amber Dalrymple via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amber Dalrymple at missfawn hill0)9mail com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Natalie D'ambrosio <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:56 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RAWAI' I IVED Time j . �s By� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets —often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Natalie D'ambrosio via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Natalie D'ambrosio at baysideal(c-Oyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gail Dahl <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:51 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I �IB —�L� Time gy To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Gail Dahl via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gail Dahl at gcdaht71 ()outlook com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Clara Dannemann <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:23 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAMAI'I RECEIVED Time By Date_ J U L 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohd'ha BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or tow -cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Clara Dannemann via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Clara Dannemann at ctaradannemann(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Laura Dannemann <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:58 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ++ RECEIVED Time 10`4 AM BY (,^�� Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Laura Dannemann via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Laura Dannemann at tolaurad(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of William Dannemann <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:48 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAVAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ,.,,,RECEIVED Time lMA 1 BY LA" - Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by William Dannemann via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to William Dannemann at willdannemann()gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Daoust <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:09 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I IVED By � Time , To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date AL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. our'ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Cynthia Daoust via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Daoust at sldaoust((:bmsn.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Henry Daoust <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:08 AM Council Testimony C ;i_r,:a 2Y CLERK Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAWAI' I To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: -1L I��� F�C IVED Time By �_ Date - 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL workingtogether to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Henry Daoustvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Henry Daoust at lovellarae2791 PgmaiLcom. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stephen Daoust <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:08 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I EIVED Time BY__ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date AL G 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Stephen Daoust via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stephen Daoust at greenthumbdude24(o)gmait.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sherrie Darce <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:05 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF KAfXAI' I RECEIVED Time gy__C�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sherrie Darce via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sherrie Darce at sherrieahendCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of David David <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:42 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 11 RECEIVED Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained byyears of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by David David via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David David at bowman david@protonmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Belinda Davis <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:57 AM To: Council Testimony CUUN i"WAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (� � CEIV .D Time By � Date JUL 2 2 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Belinda Davis via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Belinda Davis at davisbelindaleeCcogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robert Davis <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:54 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ByCk ' f' 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Robert Davis via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robert Davis at robert.davis23Ccbaol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Matthew Dawson <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:27 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAWAI , I E IVED Time v WNa B � To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Matthew Dawson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Matthew Dawson at i love _her26 inbox.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Will Dawson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:43 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAwAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time =�IVED� By JUL 2 Z 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date , I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Will Dawson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Will Dawson at importoutlet(a)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Monica Deagustini <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time�P By� JUL 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Monica Deagustini via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Monica Deagustini at monicapa6Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Degroot <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED RECEIVED Time��� - Date—AL-1-2 2025 - To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Linda Degroot via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Degroot at lindajdegroot outlook.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Keoni De La Cruz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:17 AM COUNTY CLERK TO: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVEDTime 1�_ gy Date_ J■ _2 2 225 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Keoni De La Cruz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Keoni De La Cruz at keoni.delacruzCcbgmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shelly De La Cruz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:05 AM COUNTY CLERK Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED I RECEIVED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Time 1V0M BY(A_ Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Shelly De La Cruz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shelly De La Cruz at shelly wojnowski()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennifer Delgado <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:24 PM G,)UN'TY CLERK Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAwAI'I To: y RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSEDgl,-- 0 z:ate _JUL 2 2 2025 I'm from Texas and visit Hawaii as a tourist. I will not visit ever again if this passes! This message was sent by Jennifer Delgado via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennifer Delgado at billion walk()yandex.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stefanie Delmont <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:57 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 'y RECEIVED Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: PJ Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Stefanie Delmont via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stefanie Delmont at bluejourny@aol.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Dencjer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:09 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time on) By — To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goat is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Carol Dencjer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Dencjer From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heidi Denecke <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:12 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time_' L_ By Date JUL 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONGH Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Heidi Denecke via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heidi Denecke at mauiglobetrotteragmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sherri Deponte <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:22 AM c 01UrI :Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time- _14sarn By C0 Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sherri Deponte via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sherri Deponte at cobrasheriPaol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Denise Derouen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:01 AM C.GuNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI,I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ( 1 RECEIVED Time Ok EyyL `,(�' To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 Icall on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Denise Derouen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Denise Derouen at sneaky61 cat()vahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Wendy Desa <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:27 AM C.c' To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time J'_30QM By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Wendy Desa via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Wendy Desa at wends desaCcbyahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Anita Desmond <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:50 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED/' Time, 1�— By e, Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Anita Desmond via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Anita Desmond at anita.desmond2C�aol.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Monica Dey <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana. BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 2 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Monica Dey via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Monica Dey at turkeybuttmonica@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lorene Diana <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ��f� B,__C&_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause— not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this— but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lorene Diana via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lorene Diana at lorismauilifeCc-ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ronnie Dicomo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED j RECEIVE Time I ":30 0M By Date ILIA 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ronnie Dicomo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ronnie Dicomo at lunamoth28Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rebecca Dill <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ( �_ gl,LfA To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support area[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Rebecca Dill via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rebecca Dill at obbeachbabe22CaDgmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sheri Dogra <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:45 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HA*AI'I RECEIVED Time C_L qS�W BY_L/&__ Date JJJL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohalia BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Sheri Dogra via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sheri Dogra at sheridogra(@me.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ashlee Domingo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:27 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I STRONGLY OPPOSED Subject: Bill 51 - STROCEIVED J Time }S ByV- Date 7 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION 1 We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Ashlee Domingo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ashlee Domingo at aurora kynn 28 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Phoenix Domingo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 7:45cwn By CQ Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Phoenix Domingo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Phoenix Domingo attsytsyrei@gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karyl Doss <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:58 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF 114#kI' I RECEIVSD T ime�� BY_Lk,_ JUL 2 2 2025 Date I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Karyl Doss via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karyl Doss at karyldoss0)hotmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deborah Downes <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:11 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAVaZ1I RECEIVED Time (hK W Ely Date JUL 2 2 202-- 5 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: «.. Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advo cats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Deborah Downes via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deborah Downes at dbdownes(a-)vahoo.com. We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Grace Doyle via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Grace Doyle at bluemoon808(c)yahoo com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Laurie Dresser <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �o By Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Laurie Dresser via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Laurie Dresser at lauriesz06CaOyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melanie Duarte <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:53 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY E Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED iVED AI'I TimeTW Z—W— To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 4U_L 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Melanie Duarte via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melanie Duarte at mel.duarte010Cd)9mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Geneva Dubois <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED lz By Time ��nEIVED 0 Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Geneva Dubois via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Geneva Dubois at Jeff the plumber(c-Ohotmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Dubois <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:53 AM CpuN, .,. .�,:►.x To: Council Testimony COUNTY "iAwAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED pf. AD Time Date__JUL 2 2 202.5 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Mary Dubois via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Dubois at maryduboisCd)msn.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelly Duell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I MEIVEDpyTime�, To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kelly Duell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly Duell at mauitechgirl gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Normand Dufresne <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF xpital I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time_--1- RECEIVED � BY Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `©Nana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Normand Dufresne via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Normand Dufresne at normandgorby(cbaot.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ute Duke <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:07 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony 7. Time Q� R.W� By Glx RECEIVED !/�� Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED J� 2 2 2025 Date To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Ute Duke via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ute Duke From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Graham Duncan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:23 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: -Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I `� RECEIVED �iI Time .g54t Byi_ Date J U L 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Graham Duncan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Graham Duncan at ballylin007009mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kyle Duncan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:15 AM C�A,:<'y Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 202a 1 call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support.o,.uf,.`ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size over time —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kyle Duncan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kyle Duncan at kyle97CEbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sue Dungan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:16 AM Cou! Y To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HARM I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Tine BY CU Date JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned — and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `o tana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable taw Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —white protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sue Dungan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sue Dungan at suedungan1 Oogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mira Duong <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:51 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I EIVED Time BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date AL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes —and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained byyears of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawaii, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Mira Duongvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mira Duong at mad uong_0700hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Trusty li Earl <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ( RECEIVED m L MUM BYw to JUL 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs and join us in supporting humane, When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us— our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Trusty Ii Earl via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Trusty Ii Earl at eptinwi(a-)gmait.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Eaton <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:20 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time t(� ByLC&_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results here on our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jessica Eaton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Eaton at jessicaleaton(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Logan Edwards <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:12 AM COUNT To: Council TestimonyCLERK ,coUNT�C' �F KA>Nxr • i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED fCXIVED Time: D$t* JUL- 2 2 2 25 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance one led by local organizations, volunteers, and PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Logan Edwards via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Logan Edwards at feeling remain67(o)live.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Meredith Edwards <advocate@ ma il.action button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:34 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY Off' HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time - ly gy_(:8X_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council• Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our'ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Meredith Edwards via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Meredith Edwards at meredithwaverty(@hotmait.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bj Elessar <advocate@ ma il.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI T I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time (1 � BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goat is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, or abandoned —and we need to fix the broken system behind it. OUR SOLUTION: TWO -PRONGED ACTION We invite you, Mayor Alameda, to support a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters and sanctuaries to rehome cats These approaches tackle the cause —not just symptoms. They're backed by data, used nationwide, and already yielding results hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering — for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. SIGN THE PETITION —AND JOIN THE MOVEMENT Together we can: Stop the cycle of abandonment Keep families and pets united Reduce cat colony size overtime — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, we urge you: reject this bill and stand with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Bj Elessar via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bj Elessar at elesb(cbyahoo com.