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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.992 2024-2026From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lynn Morgenroth <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent:. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:52 AM To: Council Testimony c _ Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY ur' xAWAi' I �IVED Timc# � 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 Comm. No. �_16-� a 01q Ref. To: VA&i 1 Ref. Date J U L 2 3 2 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 wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, 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 Lynn Morgenroth via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lynn Morgenroth at nospam(amorgenroth.us. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Helen Morgia <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:27 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED rr RECEIVED /� Time 0 By �/l 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Helen Morgia via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Helen Morgia at hellarr(aaol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Martha Morrissey <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:24 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 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 Martha Morrissey via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Martha Morrissey at mmorrissey@twc.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jannee Morley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:06 AM .:l.iFkK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAMAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Tale 1i�Eiv D— 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 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 — 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 Jannee Morley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jannee Morley at orangewhiskers@msn.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicia Morrier <advocate@maii.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 Time �ou _ 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dennis Morris <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:22 AM .COUNTY OF HA�D►I ' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED 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 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 Dennis Morris via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dennis Morris at key.focus yandex.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Renee Morris <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:37 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony l,Jt1,;T'_' COUNTY of HAMAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time s 4, �w _ BYL_Q�__ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ,jjll 22 025 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,'obana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Renee Morris via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Renee Morris at ahyokafallingflowerranch(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mitchell Morse <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:51 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time �^ gy 1 �( Date L i 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'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 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 Mitchell Morse via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mitchell Morse at mitcheLlmorse@gmaiL.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deb Moureau <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:35 AM C:JUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED EIVED Time r, BY P 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 Deb Moureau via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deb Moureau at debmoureau(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robert Mufalli <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:11 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAVAI' I RECEIVED Time_ _ gy_Jg 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 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 Mufalli via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robert Mufalli at huellmufatti(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Irene Murdock <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:09 AM COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time (V 4 W 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 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 Irene Murdockvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Irene Murdock at imur447632Ccbaol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Murray <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:04 AM Lk-PK To: Council Testimony WUNTY of HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 54� Time - Date_ IIII 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 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 Carol Murray via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Murray at cmtigerlady4(cbaol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Denice Murphy <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:03 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 Lt Q` BY__CA_ Date JUL 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 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 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 Denice Murphy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Denice Murphy at denicemurphy(o)mac.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Erin Murray <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:16 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CURK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAVAI' I RECEIVED Tiae_h�__ 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 `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 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 Erin Murray via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Erin Murray at erinmurray9(d)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of George Murphy <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:21 AM �x To: Council Testimony CUU11 r., UZ HAVAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVEDD BY pate 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 `abana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 George Murphy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to George Murphy at murphygdS�twc.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jane Murphy <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:09 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY QF HAVAI I Time RECEIVED A 00 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 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 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 Jane Murphyvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please replyto Jane Murphy at.*murphy7977(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kathleen Murray <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:25 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF, HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time_ �IVE By Date JU! 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 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 Kathleen Murray via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please replyto Kathleen Murray at murrayk(@zoho.com. Quihano, Chasit From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelly Murray <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:13 AM COUI—L CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time, `t 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 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 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 Kelly Murray via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly Murray at HotshotkamCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tonya Murray <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:42 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF EIVED Timel. HAWAV I BI' Z Z 2' ToMayor 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 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 NW&IIr_\611ll901:7_1to] :/_ls;1m:l91Y611111I i, Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Tonya Murray via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tonya Murray at tonya.lmurray(cOgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lin Musto <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:34 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAvAI'I RECEIVED Time gy 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 Lin Musto via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lin Musto at ligmustoO)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mikyla Nakila <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED y Time 1�y� By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Hate AL 2 2 2095 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 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 Mikyla Nakila via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mikyla Nakila at mikylan0g)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mirabai Nagle <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:01 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED n CEIVED Time y9an Bycy., 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 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Mirabai Nagle via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mirabai Nagle at mirabai.kukC�hotmail.com. From: advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sharon Nakasone-updike <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:09 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RE C//��EIVED Time aA1 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sharon Nakasone-updike via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sharon Nakasone-updike at supdike1123Ccbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Narkoff <advocate@ mail.action button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:44 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time_WL4 � 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;,�o.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 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 Narkoff via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Narkoff at cindynarkoff()yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nicole Naughten <advocate @mail.action button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (RECEIVED Time 2 202� By�_ JUL 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 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 Nicole Naughten via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nicole Naughten at nnaughten yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patrick Navez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:50 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF IVED HAWAI'I ' Time �t 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 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 Patrick Navez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patrick Navez at navez.patrick wanadoo.fr. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dawn Naiwi <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVEDTirae 0k. ill By�_ 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 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 Dawn Naiwi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dawn Naiwi at dnaiwi(a)msn.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leroy Ne <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time lis BY_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Hato 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 Leroy Ne via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leroy Ne at lkbully(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Makayla Neal <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ; RECEIVED Time i1�1ft, y 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. 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 Makayla Neal via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Makayla Neal at makayla84 gmx.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amanda Neil <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:27 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED---vED �P Time I; ��rBy 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Amanda Neil via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amanda Neil at auietsurrender(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sophie Nelson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:41 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA*'AI' I RECEIVED �_.2.., Time By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 2 2 2m I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Sophie Nelson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sophie Nelson at sophienelson01 C)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nakoa Nelson-riley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:54 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I 12ECEIVED Time Garr 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 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Nakoa Nelson-riley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nakoa Nelson-riley at nnelsonriley6lgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patty Nemenz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED q� RECEIVED Time 1 0 * 0 ( -o 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 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 Patty Nemenz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patty Nemenz at pattynemenz(a)mac.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 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 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 Brittany Newman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brittany Newman at much2bold()hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Hung Adam Nguyen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:27 AM COUNTY OF HAVALI I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time t:_IOAVi 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 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Hung Adam Nguyen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Hung Adam Nguyen at ximocomPgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lynn Nguyen <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:13 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED I� �(?lRECEIVED Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the HawaiiDate JUL 2 2 2025 County Council: --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 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 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 Lynn Nguyen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lynn Nguyen at nglvnn31078(g)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jason Nicolas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:54 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ( ByCt�_ 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 Jason Nicolas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jason Nicolas at Jaynick(o) Live. com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Madge Nicolas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:54 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I(g� By G Date 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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: 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 Madge Nicolas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Madge Nicolas at MadgenicolasCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ronda Nicholson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA#AI' I RECEIVED %-") Time I '� By LIV, To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date-AUL 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-co"st spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Ronda Nicholson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ronda Nicholson at ronniekay(.-Ohotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michael Nielson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:13 AM To: Council Testimony cuuiv:. ,tiwtii i Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time aRECEIVED 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 Michael Nielson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michael Nielson at bubbaman65Co)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ruby Nightingale <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:03 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time By--Q)-- Date JUL 2 2 40123 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 Ruby Nightingale via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ruby Nightingale Quihano, Chasity From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Devra Nitzsche <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:59 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Timem W-G&- 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 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 Devra Nitzsche via Action. -Butt -on, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Devra Nitzsche at devra dunphyPLive.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Noblit <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:13 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVETime 1:y54m ByD Date ,�( 9 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 Carol Noblit via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Noblit From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shellie Norman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: J Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED counzY of HAWAII IRE, EVED 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 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 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 Shellie Norman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shellie Norman at sheltie norman(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Norris <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:20 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Categories: PENDING CURRENT RECEIVED Lme 10' B,_ a to I I N 9 22025 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 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 Julie Norris via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Norris at.'utslOvsbrOwnies(-cbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Northrup <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:45 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I CEIVED Time . By MP To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date L 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 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Susan Northrup via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Northrup at we3serendipity(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Silvina Nussbaum <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:46 AM Y _:LERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'IRECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time r gy� Date�_7 � �o�-- 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 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 Silvina Nussbaum via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Silvina Nussbaum at chivi1982CcOicloud.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lincoln Nymeyer <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:00 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED {�RECEIVED Time 1O'�1!5��rQrP11 By `(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 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 Lincoln Nymeyer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lincoln Nymeyer at 789dragons(a-)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shan O <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:31 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I ' \--IVED Time By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 LUGS I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Shan O via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shan 0 at rescuehawaiiC('Ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Elizabeth Oconnor <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:33 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time- 13y_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 `o.hana 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Elizabeth Oconnor via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elizabeth Oconnor at liz95688C)pacbell.net. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cherrie Ogin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:51 AM CO MTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time I- IVEDn By Jy Date 4UL 2 2 2U25 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 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 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 Cherrie Ogin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cherrie Ogin at c ogin hotmait.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cathy Okada <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:15 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY UAM O�F� HAWAI � I To: Council Testimony I SBy y Subject: ;, Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED T. ,p D:-. r e 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 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 Cathy Okada via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cathy Okada at Cathyokada netscape.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Renee Okada <advocate@ ma il.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:16 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED , f CEIVED Time W14N 1� W 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 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 Renee Okada via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Renee Okada at tcb6391 @yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rob Okamoto <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:17 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By CR 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 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 Rob Okamoto via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rob Okamoto at robspeed hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lauren Okinishi <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 RECEIVED Time tm ByOD, 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 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lauren Okinishi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lauren Okinishi at LokinishiCo)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tracey Okuhara <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:47 AM COUNTS' CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAl' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED I , RECEIVED Time Date ,IUL 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 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 Tracey Okuhara via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tracey Okuhara at tokuhara(a)hawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Chris Olcott <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:59 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �41� ingy To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 111 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 Chris Olcott via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chris Olcott at chrisolcottdoors(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Olivarez <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:59 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I EIVE�Time B�, To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 4-025 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 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 Lisa Olivarez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lisa Olivarez at.Lisa020(80msn.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jakob Oliver <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:21 AM catr »_ CLLRK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �i RECEIVED Time 1 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 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 Jakob Oliver via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jakob Oliver at bbllfreak26()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Vance Oliver <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVEDTime t© - rd 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 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 Mary Vance Oliver via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Vance Oliver at poohbearpal�a-)gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Angelica Oliveros <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:42 AM To: Council Testimony r.�,rtt„ ^`• cotrN'r c C ' CLERK HAWAI I r Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time WAI By AL 2 2 � To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: D i ate I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Angelica Oliveros via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Angelica Oliveros at cnkjan200500hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Olson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:52 AM Co:zr: , r CI:ERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY uY I-IAWAI' I 115 IVED Y'h Time �t By� Date OL 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Karen Olson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Olson at miamiata(-)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heyi Omori <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:56 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time_ ioKam BY�. Date fill 9 9 7A9r 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 Heyi Omori via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heyi Omori at heyiCalhawaii.edu. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicemarie O'niell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:24 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 `uS B 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 Alicemarie O'niell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alicemarie O'niell at Alicemarie777Ccb.__gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kathy O'reilly <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:16 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I CEIVED Time �d , am By co, - 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 Kathy O'reilly via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kathy O'reilly at koreilly9C�gmaiLcom. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of James Orozco <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:46 AM To: Council Testimony covxTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLYOPPOSED COUNTY RECEIVED FiAKAI`'2 Time �_ 8Y 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'ohana BEFORE 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 James Orozco via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to James Orozco at orozco James me.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marian Orssten <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:09 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1 (� By�--- J U L 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 values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our `ohana, our cats, and our 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 maLpha00(@9maiL.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kevin Ortega <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:21 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 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 Kevin Ortega via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kevin Ortega at ortegak(a)mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sarah Ortega <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:13 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 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 Sarah Ortega via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sarah Ortega From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kim Ortman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:56 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time i040MBy Date .1UL 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 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 Kim Ortman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kim Ortman at kmrbmort(c-Paol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michael Ortiz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:31 AM _ CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED p1��,1�y-�} Tim, - JUL 2 2 203 1 i`i County Council: To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawa ty Dat=G' I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 —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 Michael Ortiz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michael Ortiz at hair1988@gmx.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Scott Osborne <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:26 AM c JOIN I � , _Z aK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED i �d—v By CO 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 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 Scott Osborne via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Scott Osborne at scottosborneCa)zoho.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Absity-ann Padamada <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI 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 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 Absity-ann Padamada via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Absity-ann Padamada at absity808()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lais Paganotti <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:03 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I � j RECEIVED Time J.Q-ja*-4 By CQ Date ,1111 2 2 2U27 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Lais Paganotti via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lais Paganotti From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Briana Paiva <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:10 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time W. �ByA_ 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 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 Briana Paiva via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Briana Paiva at brihendrix7Ccbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Pleva <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:02 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ,i RECEIVED Time `ti `t� um g 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Pleva via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Pleva at mouse1179Ca)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sanoe Paiva <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:10 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: yhh RECEIVED Time I U_ BY-CR- 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 Sanoe Paiva via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sanoe Paiva at sanoepaiva808(a gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cody Pakele <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:42 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED � EIVED_P 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Cody Pakele via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cody Pakele at kakpocodez@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Meghan Patton <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:39 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 0 Time ��� By tIVIN — Date JUL 2 2 2026 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 Meghan Patton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Meghan Patton at Patton meghan outlook.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marianne Panoff <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:10 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAy/AI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time l _ ZY , 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.`ohaAna BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Marianne Panoff via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marianne Panoff at mtpanoff gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michael Pargett <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:07 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED Time aM 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 Michael Pargett via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michael Pargett at michaelpargetteC�hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bettyjoe Parmer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time 0 By Date JUL ? % ini; 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 by Bettyjoe Parmer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bettyjoe Parmer at biparmer1940Co)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cindy Parsons <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:02 AM To: Council Testimony "`'"`k Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED re Time 1130f _ By(_'A"0^� 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 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 Cindy Parsons via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cindy Parsons at parsonsc(a)gmx.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Elaine Partlow <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:11 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time _ BY_al_ Date__"J 2 2 2121 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 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 Elaine Partlow via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elaine Partlow at departlow(o)gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Darnell Paul <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:12 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUWA CLERK ,COUNTY' QF HAVAI'' I imp Time D►te, JUL 2 2�20� I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 .y Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Darnell Paul via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Darnell Paul at dvpaul11 gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cara Paulk <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:45 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI Y I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time lU Br_ Date JUL 2 2 2Q2s 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 Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, 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 Cara Paulkvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cara Paulk at carapPcsicontractors. com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of David Pearson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 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 (1 Time 1 u SUM 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: 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 David Pearson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David Pearson at dbbjpearson(a)gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Pedemonte <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:52 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I 4Q,U EIVED� Tim rfM By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council.: AL Lu)j 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 Lisa Pedemonte via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lisa Pedemonte at loedemonte(acomcast. net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jordan Pedersen-fukunaga <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:07 AM Cv.JN�:Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI T I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 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 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 Jordan Pedersen-fukunaga via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jordan Pedersen-fukunaga at Jordan fukunaga a gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nicole Peltier <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:22 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERKCOUNTY Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED OF HAWAI I I ,,,RECEIVED Time gym 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 tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Nicole Peltier via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nicole Peltier at nicote.kuratsu@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Will Perdomo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:41 AM COUNTY OF M4AI' I To: Council Testimony Time RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED BY—b44-__ Da 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 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, 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 Will Perdomo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Will Perdomo at wood landgrovetxCc�gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Constanza Perry <advocate@ mail.action button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:13 AM Ci 'RK To: Council Testimony CuU117 GF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED N,,,*EIVED T:i m `q, By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: D- 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Constanza Perry via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Constanza Perry at perryconnie4961 Cbyahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amanda Petersen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:47 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time I �� � UPI By Date 6; 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 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 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 Amanda Petersen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amanda Petersen at you rself9888(a)gmx.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gary Pfahl <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:38 AM C" 'JNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED FcEIVED Time , . �� By_ 1111A� Date JUL 2 2 L2il25 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 Gary Pfahl via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gary Pfahl at pfahlguy@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marcie Phares <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AM To: Council Testimony tiwHt ' z Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED • RECEIVED Time ` S fA gyEA 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 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, Bit[ 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -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 Marcie Phares via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marcie Phares at marciebarberphares gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Arnie Pico <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:59 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED -. RECEIVED Time i0agil ii 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: 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 Amie Pico via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amie Pico at lezbeadventure0bgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Pierce <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:29 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED _ RECEI H D Gt�— a 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: _111t I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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: N Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma 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 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 Julie Pierce via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Pierce at juliepierce51 (a)outlook com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Adri Piercy <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Timel IL422025 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 Adri Piercy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Adri Piercy at panfila1(o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Matt Piercy <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED MAEIVED Tim . , 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Matt Piercy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Matt Piercy at mpiercyCcbhpa.edu. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Maraya Pierro <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:41 AM COI1NW CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAVAI , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 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 feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill. 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Maraya Pierro via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Maraya Pierro at accountsC�rescuekittiesofhawaii.org. From• advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jamie Poerstel <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent• Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:24 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED L� Time By l.iX 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 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 Jamie Poerstel via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jamie Poerstel at jamiepmmurphy((J)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Pohina <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:25 AM To: Council Testimony couNT� CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I ��eRECEIVED Ca Time 1 Ll�(,�I'L'') BY JUL 2 2 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date Ica ll on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Pohina via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Pohina at capohina yahoo.com. From: DancingJoy Sent: Saturday, July 19, 2025 3:13 PM To: Clifford.victorin@hawaiicounty.gov; Brilhante Jr, William V; Alameda, Christian (Kimo); Council Testimony; Kimball, Heather; Kagiwada, Jennifer, Onishi, Dennis; Kierkiewicz, Ashley; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt; Galimba, Michelle M.; Villegas, Rebecca; Inaba, Holeka; Hustace, James COUNTY CLERK Subject: OPPOSE Bill 51 ! COUNTY OF HAwAI' I �'EIVED j �h Time � By Please stop Bill 51 from moving forward. Date i 2 2 i u 4:� This bill will have the opposite of the desired effect and will only turn good kind hearted people into criminals. If you want to fix the feral cat problem you can look to other successful community programs including a Managed Trap -Neuter -Return system. It is possible to live with a feral cat population and keep them under control. Disneyland feeds and cares for their feral cat colony, getting them spayed and neutered. Are we more heartless than a giant corporation? We can do better!!! "Banning feeding without offering a clear, managed alternative only drives the problem underground. Cats don't disappear. They breed." - Aloha Animal Alliance Mahola, Joy Pollard, Hilo, HI From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Olivia Pollard <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM covNir CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED EIVED l Subject: 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 —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 Olivia Pollard via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Olivia Pollard at animalgirl08 yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Minei Pomroy <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:27 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED TimeQQ-04 By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2Q25 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 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 Minei Pomroy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Minei Pomroy at mineipomro r�gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cheryl Popke <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:12 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time By__ CS� 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 Cheryl Popke via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cheryl Popke at clmentzerCOhotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Chris Popke <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:22 AMx To: Council Testimony C;UuN'l r or HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED -RECEIVED r;, nlme �By—�-- =-e 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 Chris Popke via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chris Popke at chrisser69Co)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Poplin <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:57 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I vEDpTime Jia . gyli To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date " UL02 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Mary Poplin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Poplin at mrewp(a)vahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Porter <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Time TASKBy� _ � JUL Z 2 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 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 Carol Porter via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Porter at cgi porter gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Porter <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:03 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA*AI' I Y RECEIVED l Time r 3000 By 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 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 Porter via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Donna Porter at i love behavior15C0outlook.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leslie Preston <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:18 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY, NOUN CLERK I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �F�AI' p TimeTo Mayor Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Datem 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 Leslie Preston via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leslie Preston at Leslie presto nPgmx.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kathryn Priester <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:26 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ^^�� RECEIVED Time I,r l� By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 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 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 Kathryn Priester via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kathryn Priester at koriester1958C-Ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Colette Pryslak <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:40 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time -��IVED JULBY Date 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 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 Colette Pryslakvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Colette Pryslak at cotette(@celebrityeventsnetwork.ca. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lori Punko <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:46 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF IIAWAI' I TimeAjCEIB D Date JUL 2 2 2625 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 Lori Punko via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lori Punko at shantiyogawellnessC�gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of April Queja <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:22 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony COUNRECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time (� (, —CQ Date- JUL ? ? 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 April Queja via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to April Queja at aoril-g(o)hotmail com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Miyah R <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:10 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAYAI'I RECEIVED Time-ANSOM 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: . O. Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Miyah R via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Miyah R at miyahCa?pm-pi com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Renee Rabb <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:26 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSEDCOUNTY OF HAWAI'I CEIVED Time By_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date .111E 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 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 Renee Rabb via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Renee Rabb at reneerabb77Pgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rachel Radwick <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:29 PM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED / PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I RECEIVED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Time Date JUL 2 2 2025 Please think of the psychological distress, if enacted this Bill will have upon the care takers of community cats!!!! You should know and understand being a psychologist. I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem —it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Rachel Radwick via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rachel Radwick at radwick777@msn.c0m. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robert Ramirez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:13 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED i g 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 Robert Ramirez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robert Ramirez at rramirez71(a)zoho.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stacie Range <advocate@ mail.action button.o rg > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:31 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I CEIVED Time By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 4UL 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 Stacie Range via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stacie Range at rangestacieC@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 of EAWAV I Council Testimony RECEIVED To: By � Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 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 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 Kelly Ramsdell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly Ramsdell at queen kellyann1 msn.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Rawlins <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 RECEIVED Time �OdP4 gy_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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Julie Rawlins via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Rawlins atJuLier808C@ao[.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Erin Rayl <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: TO: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:25 AM Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time T 45By 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 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 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 Erin Rayl via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Erin Rayl at erinrayl83 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lynn Reedell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:36 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ,� �� CEIVED r'n Time By Date JUL 2 2 2jy�l 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 catfeedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Lynn Reedell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lynn Reedell at lynnotrC�hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kendall Regelbrugge <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:51 AM COU14TY cJ F:Lx To: Council Testimony COUNTY '-F HAWAl'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECF.1 0,r+ Time I �" ftl }i ; 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 Kendall Regelbrugge via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kendall Regelbrugge at kendalljidas(@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gary Reilly <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:23 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAiiiAI T I Subject: IIy `RECEIVED Time ll1RO.AA Bycly,� 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Gary Reilly via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gary Reilly at reilly84 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Colleena Rein <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:15 AM ..anec To: Council Testimony COUNT' i UY HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVtD Time -I 34 a By« 11- - a 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai i County Council: Date -- 'i I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Colleena Rein via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Colleena Rein at colleenapengPgmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marni Renner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:14 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: RECEIVED Time NC141 By Gk Date JUL 2 2 2M I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Marni Renner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marni Renner From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gianina Restivo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:31 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTS CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF NAWAI' I RECEIVED J _ Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: to alll!_ I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Gianina Restivo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gianina Restivo at gianinarC�gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Natalie Rettinger <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> C.;G Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 126 AM Y CLERKCOUNTY OF HAWAI I I To: Council Testimony IVED tAp Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time Bye 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 Natalie Rettinger via ActionButton, on' behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Natalie Rettinger at nrettinger(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Warren Revilla <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:41 AM To: Council Testimony C:IT.INTY CLERK COUNTY OF NA1rAI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time__La4SW4 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date -' L 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 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 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 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 Warren Revilla via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Warren Revilla at revillawaremiCo)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Erin Reynolds <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:33 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I EIVED — Time r �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 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 Reynolds via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Erin Reynolds at erinnicole413C60gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Crystal Richard <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time QM 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 Crystal Richard via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Crystal Richard at Crystal g richard(c-Ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of William Richards <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:17 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF i4,= w I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time gY '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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 t .,, Support our `btMrta 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 William Richards via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to William Richards at richardswC�gmx.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Richardson <advocate @mail.action butto n.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_LSTA4 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date .1111 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 Jessica Richardson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Richardson at karinanava2218(E)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michele Richardson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:24 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time I� gy QV, - To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date y 9 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 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 Michele Richardson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michele Richardson at micheterichardsonC@inbox.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Aliyah Richert <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:35 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED C:EIVED Time By!-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. 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Aliyah Richert via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Aliyah Richert at aliyah.richertCcOgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alice Rietveld <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:54 AM ` "NTV To: Council Testimony C, CL Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED C(W� `mag Time y ED 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 Alice Rietveld via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alice Rietveld at alicerietveld(a)mac.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Barbara Riley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:59 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Time , c BYW— 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 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 Barbara Riley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Barbara Riley at onealohashaveiceCo)gmail.com. Quihano, Chasity From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Milly Ring <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:47 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony 1„ 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 Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Milly Ringvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Milly Ring at millyringCcbicloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tanyja Roberson <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:18 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I 'ysam sy�_ Date 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Tanyja Roberson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tanyja Roberson at tanyja roberson(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Evalee Roberts <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:49 AM "uUNTX CLERK To: Council Testimony cuUNTY OF Fi1\$AV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVSD nie ;te 1111 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 `ohalfd BEFORE pets are surrendered: I" Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food 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 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Evalee Roberts via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Evalee Roberts at datcrazechick(a-)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leona Roberts <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:40 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF H AIiAI � I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1A 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 `ohanq BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Leona Roberts via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leona Roberts at nonidolphin(c-Ovahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Daniel Robinson <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time. ByO^ Date 1^ is 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 `dhana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Daniel Robinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Daniel Robinson at the page48 - aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Robinson <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:16 AM co =' -�•%� To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF K"AI - I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Tine RECEIVED �1� By CA 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 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 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 Jessica Robinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Robinson at Jessica robinsonPinbox.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kaitlin Robinson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject' Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED f O-q BECIVED Time 7, QBy 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 Kaitlin Robinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kaitlin Robinson at kaitlin robinson(a)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kim Robinson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:59 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: �IVED Time By_0 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 Kim Robinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kim Robinson at kegoeringPgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Margaret Robinson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:36 AM COUNTY OF HA►rAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Time I NG(V'j 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 Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Margaret Robinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Margaret Robinson at hyztrmhzll1651 Ca)outlook.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joshua Rodgers <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:36 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAqrAI' I Tine I o� VED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 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 Atameda, 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 Joshua Rodgers via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joshua Rodgers at kelseyannrodgers()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melanie Rodgers <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:33 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI , I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Time (ll �{�� B Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED -----__ Y ----�__-�-_ 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 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 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 — while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, 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 Melanie Rodgers via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melanie Rodgers at shortyrodgers12 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of David Rodriguez <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:59 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By CR 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 David Rodriguez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David Rodriguez at david.rodriguez(@yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Janelle Rodriguez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:05 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 1: A -Saw BY—LQ_ Date JUL 2 2 2N.0 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 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 Janette Rodriguez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Janette Rodriguez From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Oscar Rodriguez <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 71 CEIVED Time BYE Date �L �' r 2125 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 Oscar Rodriguez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Oscar Rodriguez at orod8713(c-ogma� il.com• From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sherry Rodriguez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:15 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject' Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time .0 . BY, CAR D--; � .Itlt 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 Sherry Rodriguez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sherry Rodriguez at pressure southCcbmsn.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Megan Roell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:13 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By Date 1� %IL� 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 `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 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 Megan Roellvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Megan Roell at meganroell19CEbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Natania Rogers <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:01 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED _RECEIVED Time 1Dq,.Sd II� C1 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 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 Natania Rogers via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Natania Rogers at natania rogers8()gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Remigiusz Rogowski <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:09 AM COUNTX CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI v I Subject' Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ' 30iy_ Data 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 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 wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, 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 Remigiusz Rogowski via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Remigiusz Rogowski at remigiuszrog(o-)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dorothy Rojas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:43 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF BAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ��1� `� RECEIVED Time l�1'�By. J 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 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 Dorothy Rojas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dorothy Rojas at rojas dorothyCc)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deirdre Roney <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:37 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED Time_ BY JUL 2 2 2125 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, Atoha Animal Alliance; Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Deirdre Roney via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deirdre Roney at abitofearth7(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Luma Rose <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 I Time J11L-T� By O5- Date 1�J 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 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 To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ,in 2 2 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 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 Ilona Rosson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ilona Rosson at ilonagraceamac.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christina Rosten-soares <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time AS BY r To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 4 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 Christina Rosten-soares via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christina Rosten-soares From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amanda Rotondo <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:20 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY Or HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED -1 + RECEIVED Time ^�1�_Q1''h BY__�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 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 Amanda Rotondo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amanda Rotondo at alknierC�hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kimberly Roy <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:06 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI, I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time—( 00 M B -W- To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date J11{ 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kimberly Roy via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kimberly Roy at animalzrock88C��ahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patricia Rutkowski <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:34 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED kt DECEIVED Time li' lg 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 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 Patricia Rutkowski via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patricia Rutkowski at rutkowskp002 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Judith Ryan <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I D� Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED 10tt nCEIB Time �, Date JLl 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 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 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 Judith Ryan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Judith Ryan at stonecreteinc(a)aol.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ron Ryan <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 oq�(Af4 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 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 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 Ron Ryan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ron Ryan at udy2383Cc0aol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Justyna Rychta <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:11 AM To: Council Testimony couNry oh' hAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED !! RECEIVED Time I I'" )oA BYW�_ 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Justyna Rychta via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Justyna Rychta at justyna464Ca)yahoo.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Katrina Saitta <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:10 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAVAI'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 areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oharia 13EFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Katrina Saitta via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Katrina Saitta at saittakatrina(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Allison Sakae-kauffman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:42 AM cn, 'CLERK To: Council Testimony CU'rrv'; 1' F HAWAi I i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED tip;=EIVED Time (L9�aj�l� BYrio 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 Allison Sakae-kauffman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Allison Sakae-kauffman at allison sakae(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Claudia Salas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:55 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time LiS;Qtll0 By %.A1 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date -111 L 2 2 2-025 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 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 Claudia Salas via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Claudia Salas at birdi808Cc)icloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jan Salerno <advocate@mail.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 IQ`y1m By_e& To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date lilt 20252025 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Jan Salerno via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jan Salerno at iancis salerno(@hotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jane Salvador <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:31 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAIVAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �y RECEIVED Time V By�i JUL 2 2026 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the HawaiiDate. 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 ou-rldrhana BEFORE 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 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 Jane Salvadorvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jane Salvador at janieasdfghikl gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Eric Sanchez <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:21 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVE To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: i D Time ` gy 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Eric Sanchez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Eric Sanchez at toga n4life7000(cbyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joseph Sanchez <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:02 AM COUN. 1 CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time j04, VN 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 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 Joseph Sanchez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joseph Sanchez at 3fold3Cd)fmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rachel Sanders <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED t Time _ (M By C61 Date � ���� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: ,,,, 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 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `d`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 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 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Rachel Sanders via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rachel Sanders at rsanders48(a)me.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Whitney Sanders <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:40 AM CULi7'1Y CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time (Z.� /1 BY Date W' 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 sohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Whitney Sanders via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Whitney Sanders at shake_ fan912Cc@gmx.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Erin Sandova <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA*AZ I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECXVMD Time N tV 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 `O'Aha,BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Erin Sandova via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Erin Sandova at erinsandova259Ca)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kimberlee Sang <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:50 AM COL'i'3TY ��kl' I To: Council Testimony xscEl Vr" Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time ,na By _ Date JUL 2 2 2115 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 Kimberlee Sang via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kimberlee Sang at kimisang86 hotmail.com. Quihano, Chasity From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Katrina Saitta <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:10 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I al-,IVED Time IBy 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 Katrina Saitta via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Katrina Saitta at saittakatrinaC@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Larry Santos <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:38 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED `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 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Larry Santos via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Larry Santos at pdtheclownCcOgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lynn Sato <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:17 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF XA*AI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVXD Time I ;�f1(- gy CC 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 Lynn Sato via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lynn Sato at lsato54Ca)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of April Sayegh <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:17 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: PRECEIVED Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ,,RECEIVED Time "tJ �M By�_ Date JUL 2 2 90- �— 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 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 April Sayegh via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to April Sayegh at adsayegh((:baot.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sandra Sazma <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:06 AM CUUN l i CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF AAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ft7 ) By�_ Date AtIl 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 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 Sandra Sazma via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sandra Sazma at sand isazma(a-)gmaiLcom. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Connie Schaeffer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> WA LERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:10 AM couru "-' `HA To: Council Testimony COUNTY OFHAWAI' I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED I By_ Timee �_ 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 Connie Schaeffer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Connie Schaeffer at con niecatlady(o)comcast.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of John Schaffer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:37 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time11 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 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 John Schaffervia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to John Schaffer at ijschafferCo)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Fred Schaper <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:38 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF EIVED HAWAI'I 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Fred Schaper via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Fred Schaper at jsiimbosox7@gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ashley Schiano <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:49 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED TimeU11 BY Date jilt. 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 Ashley Schiano via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ashley Schiano at gschiano(o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lori Schiavone <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:47 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time SW By UP Date JUL 2 2 *i1j25 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 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 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 Lori Schiavone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lori Schiavone at lkslori@yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robert Schicker <advocate@ ma il.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:30 AM COUNTY Q,, To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF Z v I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECZZVXp me 1014, CV 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 `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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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: 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 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 Robert Schicker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robert Schicker at bobschickr(a)cox.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deena Schlitzkus <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:47 AM To: Council Testimony LExx Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED CF' HAWAI CEIVED Time B Y 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 —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Deena Schlitzkus via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deena Schlitzkus at schlitzkusdeena11 Pgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alexia Schmidt <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:16 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CIX&RK COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVND Time ii�_ gy` 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 a real 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Alexia Schmidt via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alexia Schmidt at atexiarschmidtC�gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Schoenstein <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IdUIB D Tim e FQ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date &L2 2 I1 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 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 Lisa Schoenstein via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lisa Schoenstein at schoensteinlisa@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Natina Schneider <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED CCa,�� RECEIVED� Time cY' 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 `cihana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Natina Schneider via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Natina Schneider at natinaksC��rahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of David Schulman <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:54 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I IVED 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 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 David Schulman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David Schulman at zdrdavida@proton.me. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patricia Scott <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:13 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED r, , Time 04 (�( 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 Patricia Scott via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patricia Scott at patriciamscott(agmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sidney Shortt <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:58 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED !iv,, CEIVED Time �"'1V I 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 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 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: 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 Sidney Shortt via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sidney Shortt at sidneyshortt yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joelle Seashell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:37 AM To: Council Testimony couaT�t CLERK COUNTY OF RAITAI ' 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 `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Joelle Seashell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joelle Seashell at joelleseashell(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Veronica Sechter <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 AU 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 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 1 _ A1� •ice _�.� :� _ • •► Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Veronica Sechter via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Veronica Sechter at veronicagsechter(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michael Servis <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:30 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF Time-1AI HAWAI' I VED BY__.VrL__ 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 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 Michael Servis via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michael Servis at servism2(a)comcast. net. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennifer Sesnick <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVE Time BYD Date _I111 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: 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Jennifer Sesnick via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennifer Sesnick at jennifersesnickC��ahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tammy Setterland <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:53 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED TimeIN-'amBy , To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ,1111 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 `ohana BEFORE 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 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Tammy Setterland via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tammy Setterland at tlsetterland(cbyahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heidi Sewell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:25 AM C,'�:.a To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ,' f r IVED Time gy___!UY[__ 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 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 — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Heidi Sewell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heidi Sewell at phllyfree2 gmail.com. Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, 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 Robin Shirley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robin Shirley at bretmanandrobinCo)aot.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 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 Kurt Shanaman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kurt Shanaman at bigislandindianriderCOgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Noah Shaw <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:56 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAwAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVE 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 catfeedingwon't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren'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 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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: 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Noah Shaw via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Noah Shaw at airplaneCo)live.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shelley Shelley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:35 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI T I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (� RECEIVED Time Iy'� By Date �-U� � % 702S 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 `ohafia BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Shelley Shelley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shelley Shelley at ssimpson45Ca)hotmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Angel Shelton <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:46 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAT#AI'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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 Atameda, 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 Angel Shelton via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Angel Shelton at sheltonaCcOyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ashley Sharp <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:10 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11%I BYI-A- To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date Illl 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 Ashley Sharp via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ashley Sharp From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Phillip Shea <advocate@maiI.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 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 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 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 Phillip Shea via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Phillip Shea at wo913C0yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Shepard <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:01 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ' � ..30RE�CnEIVED Time l�'�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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 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 Carol Shepard via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Shepard at carolshepard9Ca)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jenny Shimabukuro <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:43 AM coc;:,.� To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time A A M BY_CJL,_ Date _1111 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 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@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Regina Anne Shimada <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:47 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1C)*'qy0M 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 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 Regina Anne Shimada via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Regina Anne Shimada at regina mormad(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.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 ,t RECEIVED Time �' `{ By Pate 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 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 Elizabeth Shipley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elizabeth Shipley attosweetcheeksPhotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robin Shirley <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:48 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CF HAWAI' I =IVED Time By� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date AL 2 2 Lug I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill. 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Robin Shirley via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robin Shirley at bretmanandrobin(a)aot.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ann Shishido <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:57 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF IVED rXS Time HAWAI' 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 tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Ann Shishido via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ann Shishido at annmichie(a)icloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christine Shore <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:50 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time � fi 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 Christine Shore via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christine Shore at cishore(a)hotmaiLcom. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Brittany Shortt <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:56 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI, I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time VKqn ByC— 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 Brittany Shortt via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brittany Shortt at brittanyshortt hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tami Shotz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:41 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK I, I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED FED By Time3AW 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 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 Tami Shotz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tami Shotz at whatevatmi(@aol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ramona Shrable <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:22 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 l+� S(Al By— bl% 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 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 values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our'ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Ramona Shrable via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ramona Shrable at rkshrableCq)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heidi Shuler <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:46 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED nCEIVED Time 1� LA� W BY-44r— 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 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 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 Heidi Shuler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heidi Shuler at shulerh60C80vahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Roxanne Shupp <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:04 AM To: Council Testimony CGUNfY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I TimeCEIVED� _ BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date al 22 cue I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Roxanne Shupp via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Roxanne Shupp at rox.lilly.05()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shannon Shuttleworth <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED f�JLE-CEIVED� Time �V`�W 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 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 Shannon Shuttleworth via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shannon Shuttleworth at islandradio88C@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Uly Silkey <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:42 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY C1,4hK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I . RECEIVED B / Ti bm To Mayor Kim o Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL2 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 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 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 Uly Silkey via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Uly Silkey at Uly gCwahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sandra Silva <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:19 AM COU .TY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED � Time � ��� (]� 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 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 Sandra Silva via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sandra Silva at cpaCcbsandrasilvacpa.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Randy Simpson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED C� RECEIVED Ca Time 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 areal plan —one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our'bhana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Randy Simpson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Randy Simpson at randy_@mahanahouse.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Thomas Simpson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:29 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Time -RECEIVED -XQ, _ 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 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 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 Thomas Simpson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Thomas Simpson at add_us62(@aol.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kristen Sinausky <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 all EIVED 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 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 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 Kristen Sinausky via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kristen Sinausky at sun rivercondoPyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Maren Sirine <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:53 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony, COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED TimejoLtrft By CA 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 dL Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Maren Sirine via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Maren Sirine at marensirinePyahoo.com. Quihano, Chasity From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christina Skaggs <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED CA 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Christina Skaggs via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christina Skaggs at skaggschristina(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joyce Skinner <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:28 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED nn RECEIVE Time 1i% gy 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 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 Joyce Skinner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joyce Skinner at joyceaskinner1 (q)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Yvette Skope <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:23 AM C To: Council Testimony court'- of Lih`'ra�r I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �& Time BY JUL 222125 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, 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 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 Yvette Skope via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Yvette Skope at yvetteon(a)aol.com. Quihano, Chasity From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Yvette Slack <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:35 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAVAI'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 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 Yvette Slack via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Yvette Slack at yvetteslack62Pgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rose Slone <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:40 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED �� dy1 By Date + 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 Rose Slone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rose Slone at superslone12C)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ariana Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:26 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAWAI' I Time R,E(—y By (tL� Date f WUL Z 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 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 Ariana Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ariana Smith at ariana smith@hotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ;;(( RECEIVED Time 0, 4y By 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 Carol Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Smith at eleanortrauschC�gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Diana Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:53 AM Council Testimony co(Jr:TY CLERK Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: IVED Time "JULBy �_ 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 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 Diana Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Diana Smith at dgsinhawaii(c-Ogmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:26 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony �'�� = OF H4AirI Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIvEa ,. ,,. �� .._. To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 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 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 `ohppa BEFORE pets are surrendered: J Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Donna Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Donna Smith at production fan466CEbmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Holly Smith <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:39 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAr7AI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time WON 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 tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments 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 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 Holly Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Holly Smith at hsmith(a)outlook.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelly Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:45 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI � I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED CEIVED TimeS#1 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 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 Kelly Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelly Smith at kellyasmithdvm@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kira Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:42 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I CF11 By VED 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 hereon our island. WHY BILL 51 WILL BACKFIRE If enacted, Bill 51 will: 1 Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Kira Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kira Smith at kiraanddave34Ccbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Leona Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:37 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK Hti4TAI' I Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: /4� 0"Byl—W TimeTo Date JUL 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 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 Leona Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Leona Smith at LeonaE1 Cd)aol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melissa Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAMAI , 2 Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED J RECEIVED _ Time � �l� BY—. C.BN _�_ 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[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `et-6na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Melissa Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melissa Smith at metissa.smithCo)islandproperties com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Taylor Smith <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:04 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HA*Aj , I D Time---� RECEIVZ �� B L y To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the HawaiiJU2 2 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Taylor Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Taylor Smith at cool from705(a)inbox.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Teresa Smith <advocate @mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:45 AM To: Council Testimony COU14TY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time, 10,q OV «�.:..' 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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, 10 When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 an4 conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 and with us — our `ohana, our cats, and our island values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Teresa Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Teresa Smith at tmbsmith1 Ccb9mail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Victoria Smith <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM Council Testimony a UNTY CLERK Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED r*' AJNTY OF HAWAI' I To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: ��� �T2ECE IVED Tim I y By� Day 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 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 Victoria Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Victoria Smith at queenvictoria02CcbsbcgLobaL.net. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Vincent Smith <advocate@mai[.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:41 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RECEIVED HAVAI I I Time 11.E (.�. By JUL 2 2 Z�� 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 `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 —while protecting wildlife We can solve this — but not with Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, 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 Vincent Smith via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Vincent Smith at same.candidateCa)gmx.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Salina Smith-rabe <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July Jul 22, 2025 12:23 AM 1Ni" CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time-- W 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 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 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 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@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carrie Smoot <advocate@maii.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 ` time IL QN1 By_(A%"_ a te�°f II 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 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 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 Carrie Smoot via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carrie Smoot at carriesmoot78Co)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Terri Soka <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:22 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAVAI'I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11� 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 `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 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 Terri Soka via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Terri Soka at boxercrew(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Diana Soloway <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED ime11�C�(� 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 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 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 Diana Soloway via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Diana Soloway at dianasoloway430(@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sara Song <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:22 AM COUIily CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAIVAI Y I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 11 RECEIVE Time w--b � 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Sara Songvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sara Song at k song1 o hotmai.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dayton Spencer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:00 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time i um 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. 1ViT/:1'*QIJ111L TiV/1J0: _[Q:(9l'.i� If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Dayton Spencer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dayton Spencer at yzrider159Ca)vahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kristin Spencer <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:13 AM Y CLERK To: Council Testimony C: of HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED (x'EIVED Time NAPC Hy —Am— *-,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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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: z Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Kristin Spencer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kristin Spencer at kspenny44CE0gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Sperring <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:45 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI `I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Tilmp Time 10_ `lJ 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 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 Linda Sperringvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Sperring at soerringlinda gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sheryl Spinola <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:34 AM C UvN i Y `'LLkK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RECEIVED HAKAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time I11` 4WIV) gl, 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 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sheryl Spinola via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sheryl Spinola at catgalsitter()aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Danielle Spitz <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:59 AM Ci.1uNTY CLERK TO: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1�, I , CEI' VED ` �, Time �` To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JIIL 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 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 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 Danielle Spitz via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Danielle Spitz at dspitzrealtor(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bri Simonia <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 A CEIVED '7 Time ! . ` ?," BYa— Date JUL 2 2 2U[ 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 Bri Simonia via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bri Simonia at Janette rodriguez@epinc pro. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessie Sponberg <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:45 AM COLJN< = c: _jt�;:x To: Council Testimony COUNTY oF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED yy RF(:;. &D Time ry(_ Date JUL ?—_ 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 Jessie Sponbergvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessie Sponberg at ozone503@gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Catherine Springel <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:16 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK 1 COUNTY OF H I Sub Subject: J Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED D _ Time 0 q&d Ely_ 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 Catherine Springel via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Catherine Springel at catherinespringel5 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Vallaeia Springs <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:44 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF RAWAI'I Time gylip I�IVE- — 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 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 Vallaeia Springs via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Vallaeia Springs at Vallaeiagonia@gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Squicciarini <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED .RECEIVED /_ Q Time (u% By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 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 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 Carol Squicciarini via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Squicciarini at shrimp59 icloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patty Staal <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:19 AM COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAiIAI � I To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED 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 values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawaii Island. our `ohana, our cats, and our 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 patty akerips50 gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Starr <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:11 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �/ Time 1'ySgM By_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I U L 9 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 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 Lisa Starr via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lisa Starr _ From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicia Starsong <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:49 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED TT*� CO T. COUN. Y OF CLERK HAWAI' I -�I Time VED By 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 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 Alicia Starsong via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alicia Starsong at konabreeze@yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Steirer <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:00 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1 0 4 K OM By ��"11''��� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 111 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 Susan Steirer via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Steirer at ssteirerCcbyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Amy Stephens <advocate@mail.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 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2Q2s I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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, 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 Amy Stephens via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Amy Stephens From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Bella Stephens <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ��RECEIVED � Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Hate 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 Bella Stephens via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Bella Stephens at isabella.kawailani(o-)gmail.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Hailey Stephens <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:55 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAVAI' I RECEIVED Time By Date JUL 2 2 Mb I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is 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 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. MayorAtameda, 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 Hailey Stephens via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Hailey Stephens at haileystephens()inbox.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shawnie Stephens <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:18 AM LERFt To: Council Testimony cofjwl i HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1 �r�EIVED _ItaQQM_ By� To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: ?gate11'1 9 9 U5 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is 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 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 Shawnie Stephens via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shawnie Stephens at mermaidshawnie()gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shannon Stephenson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:56 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED i' RECEIVED Time `1! Byl 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 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 Shannon Stephenson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shannon Stephenson at tidaonfb(cOgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Darlena Stevens <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:15 AM COUNI': 'LERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF' „AWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1:453M_ 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Darlena Stevens via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Darlena Stevens From: advocate@maiI.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 I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time1: q� By�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the HawaiCounty Council: Date. it 9 9 �n�5 �rr 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. al 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 Cindy Stewart via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cindy Stewart at cindystew1222()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jim Steward <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:03 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY of CLERK HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By Gt 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[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Jim Steward via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jim Steward at protectallcatshawaii(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kelleigh Stewart <advocate @mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:50 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED y aIVEDTimerBy� AL 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Kelleigh Stewart via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kelleigh Stewart at interstatek()hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dayna Stoker <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:31 AM To: Council Testimony co"V y Ur' HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Eq To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL? 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 Dayna Stoker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dayna Stoker at DaynastokerCabhotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Angela Stone <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:19 AM Jt To: Council Testimony CUUN Y Or HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time-3j QM BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: n*te 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 `oharna BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Angela Stone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Angela Stone at stone46@protonmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Faith Stone <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:54 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAWAI' I 'j r EIVED WTime .tom BY-�- To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date UL Z x ZU6 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Faith Stone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Faith Stone at faithstone(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Russell Stone <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:47 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY of K411AI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVZX Tiael_� By L� 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 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 Russell Stone via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Russell Stone at russellCabsimplygreenplumbing.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Louisa Streppa <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:12 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED c�. -. ` HAWAI I RECEIVED (1'35IN:I By_ Time To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: n<ue__ fit_ 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Louisa Streppa via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Louisa Streppa at hutalou7(agmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ronnie Strickler <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:53 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED r:O"'Y CLERK COUNTY C'' HAWAI'2 Time �IVED * To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 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, 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 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 Ronnie Strickler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ronnie Strickler at strickler001 (o)hawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Strommer <advocate@ ma il.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI'IEIVED Time B To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUI 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 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 Strommer via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Strommer at suzie_auzie@rocketmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sterling Sugimoto <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'IRECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 7'. 46ar. By_ CQ— 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 `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Sterling Sugimoto via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sterling Sugimoto From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tera Sugimoto <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:55 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ,RECEIVED Time%_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 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 Tera Sugimoto via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tera Sugimoto at tera 67 hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deborah Sullivan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY of HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ? �rRECEIVED r f) Time 1 T ` bam BY (p Date JUL 2 2 e025 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 Deborah Sullivan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deborah Sullivan at ke i01 hotmail.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 HAWAI ' I CEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED 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 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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: 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, 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 Elizabeth Swan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Elizabeth Swan at swan5594(a-)aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Theresa Swarny <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:15 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED EIVED Time 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'ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Theresa Swarny via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Theresa Swarny at terriswarny(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joshua Sweeney <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:34 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI'I ('='t�REC,,EIVED Time-� �Yl- i3y 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 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 Joshua Sweeney via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joshua Sweeney at involve2079Pproton maiLcom. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kathy Swett <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:04 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time U `30gM By Date hL 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 `o iana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -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, Bit[ 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Kathy Swett via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kathy Swett at 700mamabearCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicia Tabarez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:43 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF VED AI'I Time � A 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 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 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Alicia Tabarez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alicia Tabarez at alicetabarez(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marilyn Tacla <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:59 AM c',ju;M CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I� Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED IVE Time _�iyD ��47�.— 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 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 Marilyn Tacla via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marilyn Tacla at mtaclaCEbme.com. From: advocate@mail.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 HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 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 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 tadioCa)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Judy Taggerty-onaga <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:02 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 7.4 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 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 Judy Taggerty-onaga via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Judy Taggerty-onaga From: Sent: To: Subject: Aloha a Councilmembers, Kassandra Talamantez <ktalama44@gmail.com> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:10 PM Council Testimony Testimony Supporting 51 COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I �Q RECEI� Date g1, Date J 2 2 2025 My name is Kasandra Talamantez and I write to you with strong support of Bill 51, which prohibits the feeding of feral or stray animals on County of Hawaii property. This bill is not about criminalizing compassion or punishing animal lovers. It is a long -overdue, commonsense measure grounded in years of lived experience, firsthand accounts from County staff, and documented harm to native wildlife, public health, and our public spaces. have worked for the Humane society and within conservation, and have seen first hand what the effects of feral animals like outdoor cats, mongoose, and pigs have done to affect native flora and fauna. Feral animals, particularly cats, pigs, goats, and chickens, have caused serious and escalating damage across Hawaii Island. Feeding these animals on public land enables their presence, encourages abandonment, and turns our parks, beaches, cemeteries, and recreational areas into breeding grounds for invasive populations. County departments, especially Parks and Recreation and Animal Control, have reported the significant daily burden caused by these unmanaged animals. Councilmember Kaneali`i-Kleinfelder noted that this bill was born from years of conversations with staff from Parks, Recreation, Environmental Management, and Animal Control, all of whom highlighted the scale of contamination, destruction, and public nuisance tied directly to feeding activity on County property. At Lili`uokalani Gardens in April 2024, a one -month -old nene gosling died from toxoplasmosis, a disease spread only through cat feces. That gosling never left the park. It was documented eating alongside feral cats being fed daily, in a park where feces accumulated and sanitation was lacking. Across the island, park caretakers are forced to clean up feces, flies swarm picnic areas, and recreational spaces are rendered unusable. At Old Airport, for example, the beach volleyball courts have been closed because the sand became a giant litter box, and replacement costs are high. The idea that we can professionally manage or permit feeding of feral animals on public land has been proven false. As councilmembers acknowledged, Trap, Neuter, Return may sound responsible in theory, but in practice, the "Return" guarantees continued presence and growth of colonies. Colonies at Lili`uokalani Gardens and Old Airport have grown from dozens to hundreds. Feeding encourages animals to stay and signals to the public that dumping unwanted pets is acceptable. We cannot claim to support public safety or native species conservation while enabling the very practices that destroy habitat, spread disease, and cause the preventable deaths of endangered wildlife. Councilmembers clearly identified the contradiction of allowing cats to occupy parks while banning leashed dogs from county beaches. Our responsibility is to the health of our communities and the protection of our natural resources, not to perpetuating invasive species on public property. Bill 51 is not a silver bullet. But it is an essential step, one of many tools needed to address a problem that has grown unchecked for decades. It creates a clear policy, empowers enforcement, and sends a strong message that our parks and public lands are not feeding grounds for unmanaged animals. This bill is backed by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, which has expressed strong support for County action to protect native species and reduce environmental contamination. It also aligns with Hawaii Invasive Species Council Resolution 19-2, which formally opposes Trap -Neuter -Return programs and recognizes that feeding and maintaining feral cat colonies undermines conservation goals statewide. We strongly oppose any provision that would allow permitted feeding. Such an amendment would undermine the bill's purpose and make the County legally and ethically responsible for the foreseeable harm that results. If the County sanctions feeding, it must also accept liability for the take of protected species, threats to human health, and damage to public resources. I urge you to stay the course. Pass Bill 51 as written, and continue working with DLNR, HDOA, and community partners to restore our parks to safe, clean, and ecologically healthy spaces. This is not about hate. It is about responsibility. Mahalo for your courage and leadership. Sincerely, Kassandra Talamantez From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joann Takushi <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED �/ RECEIVED Time 1.4-5 4h-A By C,,Q 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 Joann Takushi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joann Takushi From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sasha Tan-torres <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:25 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA1VAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED -Aaugi BY Date i UL 2 2 2625 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 criminatize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Sasha Tan-torres via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sasha Tan-torres at puff mitton(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Terry Tatsugaw <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:24 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time /a/) By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date �(�� 2 2 202525 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Terry Tatsugaw via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Terry Tatsugaw at terrytatsugawa yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Diane Tatsugawa <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, Jul 22, 2025 1126 AM ��Jr;A`rrY CLERK Sent: Y- Y COUNTY OF HA*'AI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED rime I('% qe1/� By CR 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 ,wa Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Diane Tatsugawa via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Diane Tatsugawa at dianetatsugawa gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Halia Tavarez <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:27 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I -j RBCEIVED, Time I_4W_ 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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 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 Halia Tavarez via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Halia Tavarez at amandatavarez6kCo)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tamara Tavernier <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 ii C IVED Follow Up Flag: Follow up Time By FlagStatus: Flagged 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Tamara Tavernier via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tamara Tavernier at rainbowsart(a)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Aaron Taylor <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:22 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time l g BYLctk— To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL ' 2gn----- 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 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 Aaron Taylor via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Aaron Taylor at awtaylor9231 (o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Dennis Taylor <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 RECEIVED Timedi gy To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date_ JUL 2 2 20 25 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Dennis Taylorvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Dennis Taylor at dennis taylor@verizon.net. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Linda Taylor <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:26 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RA#A, , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECE.TVZD Time 0Y6�__ 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: .-A: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food 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 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 Linda Taylorvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Linda Taylor at Linda(@none.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tamara Tavernier <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 _�, ��LOJ-DIVED Time By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date jut 2 2 fUs I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Tamara Tavernier via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tamara Tavernier at rainbowsart(cabyahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shari Taylor <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:57 AM To: Subject: Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I EIB Tim aMC By 1�►1� --- To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: To 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 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 Shari Taylorvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shari Taylor at Srgtaz114(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of J Teng <advocate@ mail.action button.o rg > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:18 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time Byj(�k_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 1vo1 -2 2 2026 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 J Teng via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to J Teng at tengan gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julia Testin <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1 RECEIVED Time "�.Qf ByC_ _ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawai'i County Council: Date 111- 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 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 Julia Testin via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julia Testin at jultestinCa)comcast.net. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Thomas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:13 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAMAI'I t RECEIVED Time I�_�� BY 60�_,_— 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 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 Thomas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Thomas at thomas50(c-pinbox.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rebecca Thomas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent' Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:18 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA*AI I I Subject' Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVXD O , 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 `ohanra BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Rebecca Thomas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rebecca Thomas at da xboxaueenPgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Giselle Thompson <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:54 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Timelo, S zy To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 4UL 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 AnimalAtliance, 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 Giselle Thompson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Giselle Thompson at gisellephoto gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heidi Thompson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:55 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'� I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ��, ��I B TimL 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: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Thompson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heidi Thompson at heidiythompson@gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stephanie Thompson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ,•��gm By Date J(]� % 2 202S 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 Stephanie Thompson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stephanie Thompson Helping Hawaii's Homeless Felines COUNTY CLERK July 22, 2025 COUNTY OF HAWAI'I i RECEIVED 1 Time 2 (i M_ BY Hawaii County Council Date ��� 2 2 2025 Re: AdvoCATS Statement Opposing Bill 51 My name is Cindy Thurston, I am on the Board of Directors of AdvoCATS and have been the spay/neuter clinic coordinator for AdvoCATS since 2008. 1 have been managing homeless cat colonies in the Kona area for over 30 years, even before the inception of AdvoCATS in 1999. AdvoCATS is extremely dismayed that the Hawaii County Council wants to effectively discontinue the Trap/Neuter/Return programs for homeless cats on any property "owned, leased, rented, managed or operated" by the County. The proposed bill refers to prohibiting feeding of the cats; however by disallowing feeding (an essential part of any TNR program) you are in effect discontinuing the TNR program itself. Please be aware that AdvoCATS volunteers provide a total cat management program for homeless cat colonies; feeding is only a portion of what we do. Here's what happens with a total cat management (TNR) program: - At the outset, a major concerted effort is made to trap and sterilize as many cats as possible. - On an ongoing basis, the colony is monitored for any new cats "dumped" or that otherwise show up in the colony; those cats are immediately trapped and sterilized. - All new cats are evaluated as to adoptability and if deemed adoptable, placed into foster care with the goal of adoption. - All cats are monitored for medical issues and treated as necessary. Here are some statistics for your perusal: AdvoCATS has sterilized over 31,000 homeless cats, almost exclusively in West Hawaii, since we started in 1999. In 2024 alone, we sterilized over 1,800 homeless cats. This includes many, many cats at Hawaii County properties on the west side, primarily the Kona transfer station and the Old Airport park. AdvoCATS volunteers have spent many thousands of hours managing these colonies, with virtually no financial support from the County. 808 0 327-3724 Post Office Box 4415, Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96745 Email: a�vocat5hawV02101.com c website: www.ac voczitshawaii.org Hawaii County Council July 22, 2025 Page 2 of 2 What will happen if AdvoCATS volunteers are no longer allowed to feed and trap the homeless cats on County properties? The cats are not going to suddenly disappear into thin air. If no trapping and sterilization are allowed, the cats will be reproducing at an alarming rate. Don't be mistaken, what AdvoCATS has been doing is providing animal control for the county (perhaps not as the County traditionally thinks, but certainly limiting the cat population through TNR is animal control.) If the TNR programs at County locations are discontinued, the County will need to hire a large number of Animal Control officers and spend a substantial amount of money to do the work that AdvoCATS volunteers have done for free. Be aware that one of the biggest problems colony caretakers deal with these days is the dumping (i.e. abandonment) of unwanted cats by irresponsible people. This is why it is necessary to constantly monitor the colony and trap and sterilize these new entries into the colony. And unfortunately the Kona transfer station and the Old Airport are popular locations for people to dump their cats. But any TNR program requires feeding of the cats. Feeding the cats serves a number of purposes: 1) to have the cats gather in a particular spot so the colony can be observed and monitored, and any new cats can be trapped; 2) to keep the cats away from the road or ; 3) to keep the cats from preying on any wildlife in the area; and 4) to maintain the cats' health (feeding the cats makes a big difference in their health. If the cats are no longer fed, they will start roaming looking for food, will be more visible than if they are fed, and will suffer from ill health. It is counterintuitive that the County of Hawaii would want to throw away many years of hard work and discontinue TNR programs at County properties. Sincerely, Gay. au�-lam✓ Cindy Thurston AdvoCATS Director cc: Stefanie Delmont, AdvoCATS President From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joseph Tina <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK , COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time—NIOM BYC9,_ 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 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 Joseph Tina via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joseph Tina at biancashortt16(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Josie Tindell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:39 AM To: Council Testimony c; ril,y. COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED cEIVED Time 10 U By JUL 2 2 20� 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 `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 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 Josie Tindell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Josie Tindell at josietindellCcbhotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Matthew Todd <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:55 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED_ Time ( (, By Date ,lUL 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 `Q.�4na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Matthew Todd via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Matthew Todd at window also8 gmx.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Margaret Toilolo <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:56 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED 1MEIVEDTimegy 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 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 Margaret Toilolo via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Margaret Toilolo at toiloto66Ccbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jan-olivia Tom <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:52 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED r IVED Time —�1 gy� 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 Jan-olivia Tom via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jan-olivia Tom at jtom3267(c-0sbcglobaLnet. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joanna Tomuro <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:15 AM COUNTY CLERIC To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED I Tine I 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 A Support our `ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Joanna Tomuro via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joanna Tomuro at joanna.tomuro(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Pablo Toribio <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI,I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time (� fi -RECEIVED l-y--Q �' 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 Pablo Toribio via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Pablo Toribio at ptoribio54CE09mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rachel Torowski Newbould <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:00 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time r �4SQVh BYLCA 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 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 Rachel Torowski Newbould via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rachel Torowski Newbould at rachelmtorowski(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Samantha Torres <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:52 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK c``ovxTY AI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED EIVED Time 104SQn By__Q2�,__ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date in 2 2 213 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes— and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Samantha Torres via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Samantha Torres at samantha.des.torres(c-ogmaii.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Totty <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-7­ 1 f Irk 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: 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Cynthia Tottyvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Totty at ctotty63()gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Becky Trabucco <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:42 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 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 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 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 Becky Trabucco via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Becky Trabucco at toomanycats1960(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Eric Tran <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:49 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY CLERK I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED iRECEIVED CQ Time 1 �"30 am ��_ 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 area[ plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our .ghana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Eric Tran via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Eric Tran at tran.ericO)inbox.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Vicki Traver <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:31 AM "y CLERK To: Council Testimony Sri GF HAIJAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED E'. IVED By -co 2 2 2025 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the HawaiiJUL.-UL 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 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 Vicki Traver via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Vicki Traver at nortondawg0byahoo.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Carol Tredway <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI 1 I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED r �� gy lam'� 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 Carol Tredway via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Carol Tredway at allycat96725C0yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Teressa Tremaglio <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:35 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY of HAWAI' I CEIVED e , TimBY IMP 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, Action 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Teressa Tremaglio via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Teressa Tremaglio at twillse4Ca)yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Luanne Trevenao <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:43 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF IVED Time +• HAWAI I BZ 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 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 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 Luanne Trevenao via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Luanne Trevenao at lutrevena(a)hotmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Patti Trusel <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:38 AM C('UNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY or HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED , f EIVED Time J gy �p 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 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 Patti Trusel via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Patti Trusel at pmtruselCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gabriel Tschumper <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 JIVEBYD Time 1 • �#� 7f 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 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 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 Gabriel Tschumper via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gabriel Tschumper at gabrieltschumper gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ava Tucker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:20 AM co;m'rY CLERKTo• Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time S k 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 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Ava Tucker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ava Tucker at avatucker20199(d)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mark Tucker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:17 AM COUNTY C1,4xx To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED IVtD Tine �'By a JUL 2 2 202 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 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 .. .t Support our `ohahb BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Mark Tucker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mark Tucker at mtucker@yandex.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Julie Tyler <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:48 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI'I�Jp RECEIVED Time _'QP By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2125 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Tyler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Julie Tyler at itylerCOtds.net. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kate Updike <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:09 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 't RECEIVED Time `#�Ui�' I 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 notwith Bill 51. Mayor Alameda, 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 Kate Updike via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kate Updike at kathrynuilani(agmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Christina Updike <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:12 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HANAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1 RECEIVED Time NI AA By � Date .Illl 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 Christina Updike via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Christina Updike at that.iellybeanqueen@yahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sharon Updike <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED �� Time By_ Date ��l1 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 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 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 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 Hawai'i Island. This message was sent by Sharon Updike via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sharon Updike at supdike1 Ccbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mele Vulangi <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:29 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI, I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 11ff C IVED Time `1 s► I BV CQ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date�,2 7075 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Mete Vulangi via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mete Vulangi at persmv(@aol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sally Vanburen <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:35 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time:1 CEIVED By�� Date JUL 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 kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren'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 low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Sally Vanburen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sally Vanburen at sallyvanburen(o)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Robert Van Calcar <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:47 AM L"\K To: Council Testimony COUNTY HANAI' I ED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED Time E i V 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 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. LAT/:1 2II111MiY II1111:T_T61391.01 If enacted, Bill 51 will: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -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 Robert Van Calcarvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Robert Van Calcar at rvcalcar65)9mail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Monique Van Den Hurk <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:59 AM v1. LERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF RAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Q M Wy 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 Monique Van Den Hurkvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Monique Van Den Hurk at nikiv _ smarky1.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Vargas <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:50 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I I SW B D Time � y�_ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date,'JUL 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 Cynthia Vargas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Vargas at thirddensity01 @gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Tiffany Vargas <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:02 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTYRECEIVED C I D�i/l'�� i Time 11By 1, 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: I Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Tiffany Vargas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tiffany Vargas at tiff anyvargas(a)outtook.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susan Vaughan <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:44 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HA4I'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 areal plan— one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohbha BEFORE pets are surrendered: .rlf. .d'. Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Susan Vaughan via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susan Vaughan at svaughan yandex com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Velazquez <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:00 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ECEI 3&Tim B D � 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 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 MaryVelazquez via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Velazquez at mary.velazquez gmx.com. From: advocate@maiI-actionbutton.org on behalf of Yvonne Verburgt <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:08 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI T I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time tka 3;D(Am\ CQ 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 Yvonne Verburgt via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Yvonne Verburgt at yhverburgt(E�gmaiL.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Allison Vero <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:01 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI.'2 RECEI Timef 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 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, 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 Allison Vero via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Allison Vero at ajmarcheso()gmail com. From: advocate@maii-actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Vicari <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:50 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I �IVED� Timed � By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date, W!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 `ohana BEFORE 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 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 Vicari via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Vicari at iessicavicari rdhCEbgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Megan Vierra <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time WSq gy 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 Megan Vierra via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Megan Vierra at mvierra17()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ryan Viggiano <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:25 AM COLMM CLSRr To: Council Testimony COUNTY QW HA*AI Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED `atz'rVED By4, 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 `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 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 Ryan Viggiano via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ryan Viggiano at nayr onaiggivPgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Stacey Villaver <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:20 AM -OUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony CuUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED 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`obana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food 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: 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Stacey Viltaver via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Stacey Viltaver at staceykkimoto()gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Michele Villeneuve <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:44 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time A! �,�rv, i;LLQ_ 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 Michele Villeneuve via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Michele Villeneuve at mvilleneuve44C0hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Normajean Vincent <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:43 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF XA*A11I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED + 4�� CEIVED Tine ! 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 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 Normajean Vincent via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Normajean Vincent at manygr[50@)gmai[.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Caroline Viola <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:50 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI , i Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED e 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"'Chana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free ortow-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Caroline Viola via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Caroline Viola at waterkid808(s-:bhotmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ariana Wade <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:28 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 611A By_O To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date ,! 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 a real plan — one led by local organizations, volunteers, and residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `oh6na BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Ariana Wade via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ariana Wade at grow.sheOphotmail com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Athena Wagner <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 71S(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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Athena Wagner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Athena Wagner at Athenaw83C�gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Royce Wagner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:22 AM To: Council Testimony Cove z t (.>F xAWAI T I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1 Time RECEIVED , yS,� 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 Royce Wagnervia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Royce Wagner at wagner royce a gmait.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sarah Wagner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:23 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: 1 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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 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 Sarah Wagner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sarah Wagner at wagner sarah cg(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Isabella Walker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:39 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA`lAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time to 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 `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 PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 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 Isabella Walker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Isabella Walker at bells lauren2006Cq)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kimberly Waller <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:02 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 1:45a*A ByC_ 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 Kimberly Waller via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kimberly Waller From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Celeste Walker <advocate@ maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:35 AM To: Council Testimony Y CLERK_, HAWAIII Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED r; LVED J P .q By_(R To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 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 Celeste Walker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Celeste Walker at oatricksceleste17(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Henry Walker <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:12 AM To: Council Testimony � CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY v. HAWAI, I RECEIVED � Time 1 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 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by HenryWalker via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Henry Walker at hen ry.walkerCcbaol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lori Waller <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:48 AM "K To: Council Testimony COUNTS Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 7 1(RE CLi' ED rQ Time 1 `t QM By U%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 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 Lori Waller via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lori Waller at wallerlori7(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Wang <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:02 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY yr HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED ff CEIVED Time IQ� BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date I1 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers — what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Wang via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Wang at karenwang37(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Sarah Ward <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:30 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAl , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time RECEIVED � Date �By %J �A9C' 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 Sarah Ward via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Sarah Ward at sarah.ward25()msn.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Joseph Warner <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:27 AM To: Council Testimony CUUrdTY CIULRK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAKAI , I Time j 30(v RECEIVED 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 `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: Drive compassionate caretakers underground Increase dumping of unwanted pets Undermine trust and momentum gained by years of volunteer efforts Waste County resources enforcing an unenforceable law Ultimately produce more suffering —for cats, wildlife, and our community WE STAND FOR ALOHA -BASED SOLUTIONS Rather than criminalize care, let's uplift the work already underway by the following organizations: AdvoCATS, Aloha Animal Alliance, Advocats Hawaii, 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 Joseph Warner via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Joseph Warner at i love final94(a)yandex com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Paula Warner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:47 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED ��,� RECEIVED D� Time 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 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 Paula Warnervia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Paula Warner at luvkatzzz(d)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Heather Washington <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:19 AM GOUNTX CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By �A( 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 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 Heather Washington via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Heather Washington at song1963@protonmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Randall Waters <advocate @mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:18 AM co°_ N,^t .,,RK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ,4 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 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 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Randall Waters via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Randall Waters at papasmokey808 gmail com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Desiree Watson <advocate@ mail.actio n button.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:38 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time �� (J(� ByCO\ 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 Desiree Watson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Desiree Watson at alohadesiree(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of June Watson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:58 AM �. To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI ' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 4 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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, 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 June Watson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to June Watson at junesdaoneC��ahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lisa Wear <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time I'sa By -LA - To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date 1111 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 working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Lisa Wear via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat 0hana. Please reply to Lisa Wear From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jessica Weaver <advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:50 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Time 000 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 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 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 Jessica Weaver via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jessica Weaver at ieb280 yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jennifer Welch <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:09 AM r r,j ERx To: Council Testimony COUP-! ;t HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED izECEIVED T m0 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 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 Jennifer Welch via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jennifer Welch atJen822(@msn.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Shannon Wells <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:40 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time ZU� M By CQ To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date .,1111 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 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 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 Shannon Wells via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Shannon Wells at sherbertsw1 Ca)yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kristine Wendling <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:50 AM CONY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWkI ' IRECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED 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 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 Kristine Wendlingvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kristine Wendling at shakakristine(a)yahoo com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Margaret Wenkoff <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:55 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I f _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 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 Margaret Wenkoff via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Margaret Wenkoff at margewenkoff(a)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Hannah West <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:41 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I ., Time j1�1Y`n BY V_ .g%EIVED - 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Hannah West via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Hannah West at west. hannahh(cbgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kylee Whipple <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:10 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAi�TAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time_L�� BY WX %,�� 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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, 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 Kylee Whipple via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kylee Whipple at bluemoonshine205C80gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Craig Whitaker <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:21 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Tll_�Q,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 tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Craig Whitaker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Craig Whitaker at mkeeccraig(o)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Karen Whitaker <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time gl, Date 11 It 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 `ohaha BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Karen Whitaker via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Karen Whitaker at valentinemissy(d)gmail com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Corby White <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:11 AM CvuN.ZY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 11.30grA By_C4_ Pam, 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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 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 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Corby White via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Corby White at corbywon hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Marcus White <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:20 AM COUNTY i Lti.iC To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED _ 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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 Marcus White via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Marcus White at the year700)gmail com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Donna Whiteman <advocate @mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:47 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time :�Q gy__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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `ohana BEFORE 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: 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Donna Whiteman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Donna Whiteman at donnawhiteman90(@gmait.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Haylee Whitmire <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:47 AM 0, '' c_LERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 1 RECEIVED Time ��'� IAA By DateJUL 2 �n,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 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 Haylee Whitmire via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Haylee Whitmire at hayleemorphis2022CaOgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Chris Wigen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:24 AM -.1 CLEtuc To: Council Testimony COUN2"T of HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time u By Date--lUL_.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 `ohd"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 Chris Wigen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chris Wigen at cwiggyl @)duck.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Chelsea Wilhelm <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:28 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVE Time I® BY To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2�25 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct— and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Chelsea Wilhelm via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Chelsea Wilhelm at chels.wilhelm(o)gmail com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Melinda Wilkinson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:40 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAVAI'I RECEIVED Time B�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'bliana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Melinda Wilkinson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Melinda Wilkinson at cool nation203Ccbyandex.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kristine Williams <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:06 AM CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAV I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED i � Time I � _� 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 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 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 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 Kristine Williams via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kristine Williams at kmw68268(c)gmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ryan Williams <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:03 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED JkECEIVED Tiae IQ4!, qn i; To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date- 1111 2 2 2425 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Ryan Williams via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ryan Williams at ryan8000C)hawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Steven Williams <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:21 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED couulY E HA�idAI' I RECEIVED Time �'� �. BY Wl. To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date :1fl11' 2 2 21�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 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 Steven Williams via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Steven Williams at remain1969(o)ictoud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Wendy Williams <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:29 AM 1C� To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED n.ECEIVED Time yam 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 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 works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and 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: 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Wendy Williams via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Wendy Williams at feeling far44 inbox.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Gina Willman Willman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:07 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED j RECEIVED Time 6•�( a� ByLa_ 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Gina Willman Willman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Gina Willman Willman at ginaCa)willmaninteriors.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alicia Wills <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 12:31 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: C )UNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I _RECEIZc�_ m I_AV _ 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 Alicia Wills via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alicia Wills at alicia@palmvalleyfarm.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Alyssa Wilson <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:35 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time lo"i4S 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 `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 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 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 Alyssa Wilson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Alyssa Wilson at the play39COaol.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Ami Wilson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:28 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK HAWAI1 I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Time Z_� Date AL 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 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 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 Ami Wilson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Ami Wilson at amilaniwilsonCcbgmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lauren Wilson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:43 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAVAI' I RECEIVED Time IM06M gyC� —�Z To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: 2 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 Hawaii Island. This message was sent by Lauren Wilson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lauren Wilson at lwilsonC�aol.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Lorraine Winson <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:39 AM COUNTX CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY 9F HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time (:-, I VED By CR, 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 Lorraine Winson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Lorraine Winson at lorrainewinson54C0googlemail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Wilson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:20 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Cd ,k1 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 2025 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 residents already making progress: PRONG ONE: Keep Cats with Their Families Support our `'ohana BEFORE 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 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 Mary Wilson via Action Button, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Wilson at wilsonmPme.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Scott Wilson <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:03 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK coUx Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED TREc I IWD Time 30aki By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date J UL 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 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 Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Wilson via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Scott Wilson at avnav@hotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Anna Marie Wing <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COMTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 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 `ofiana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Anna Marie Wing via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Anna Marie Wing at turtleannamarieCa)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Greg Wing <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:29 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED IVED Time S 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 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 Greg Wingvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Greg Wing at wing gregCg)gmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Anita Wintner <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:05 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 1 4rba, * By_LQ_ Date _1111_ 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 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 Anita Wintnervia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Anita Wintner at anitabananaPhawaiiantel net. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Susanne Wolf <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:19 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAVAI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By Date—JUL 2 U25 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 ourohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Susanne Wolf via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Susanne Wolf at susanne-wilfPfreenet.de. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Cynthia Workman <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=CEIV c 1 Time � —*_ BYED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL ? 2 21725 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, Leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island Less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct —and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 Cynthia Workman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Cynthia Workman at cgpalaciossCo)gmail.com. From: advocate@maii.actionbutton.org on behalf of Nellie Workman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:02 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA#&I' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 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 goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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.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 4 Animals Hawaii, CatSnip, Feed the Kitty, Good Karma Spay & Neuter, Jungle Cat Ladies Sanctuary, Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana, KARES Hawai'i, Rainbow Friends, Volcano Cat Sanctuary, and others — ALL working together to roll out these humane solutions across the island. 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 Nellie Workman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Nellie Workman at mamaspazzz(ahotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kathryn Worrell <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:23 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY CLERK �I , I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVXD Time--�� By U 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 Kathryn Worrell via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kathryn Worrell at Kathrynworrell59(Pgmail.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 HAVAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time By i[Ak 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 oul"ohana BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 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 sailingcanu yahoo.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mina Yamamoto <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:53 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY COUNTY OF CLERK , HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED 10 ,,,RECEIVED Time _ 4fp 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. 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 Mina Yamamoto via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mina Yamamoto at mina yamamoto808CEbgmail.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kendra Yanney <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 2:08 AM To: Council Testimony Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I IVED Time . By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 2 20e5 I call on you to REJECT BILL 51 in its current form and instead take action that reflects our island's values of compassion, community, and kuleana. BILL 51 GETS IT WRONG!! Criminalizing cat feeding won't solve the problem — it amplifies it: Starving cats doesn't make them vanish; it drives them into sensitive ecosystems, increases disease, leads to more kittens, and intensifies community conflict. This approach punishes caregivers instead of addressing underlying causes — and it makes our island less humane. We understand the goal is to protect native wildlife. But Bill 51 ignores both the root causes and the real solutions. We urge you, Mayor Alameda, to course -correct — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets— often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren't feral monsters —they're lost, dumped, 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 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 Yanney via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kendra Yanney at spLashdakinePyahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Vida Yap <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: To: Subject: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:44 AM Council Testimony Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY CLERK COUNTY �O�F HAWAI � I _,.' �.+""CEIVED Time-a}-�ILc=1 By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 Z 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 Vida Yap via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Vida Yap at vidaryap((:bvahoo.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Deenya Young <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:16 AM COUNT" r_ ;,6RK To: Council Testimony COUNTY og HAWAI I I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time Date .UI. 2n25 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: .J 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 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 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 Deenya Youngvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Deenya Young at deenyaPhotmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Kim Young <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> COUNTY CLERK Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 1:07 AM COUNTY OF HAWAI' I To: Council Testimony RECEIVED Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time 7. By Date JU.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 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 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 Kim Youngvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Kim Young From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mark Young <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:22 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time 1U �QYO By - - CA Date J Ut 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 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 MarkYoungvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mark Young at the chair49Ca)icloud.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Rhonda Young <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:19 AM To: Council Testimony courri tixx Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY G_- HAWAI' I RECL vE Time QQM gy -09 To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Dato JAL 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 Rhonda Youngvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Rhonda Young at whom_ indicate37(a)msn.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Winton Young <advocate@ mail.action butto n.org > Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:49 AM To: Council Testimony COON`"`? �,i* HAVAZ I r Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RFi-i 1VED Time 1 I -J Coq � 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 `ohariaBEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 Winton Youngvia ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Winton Young at wyoungC�fhb.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Brandon Young-hansen <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 9:57 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HAWAI I Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED Time JM�Ufh By Jlll. To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Hate 2 Z 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 — notjust 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 values. With aloha, Your fellow resident of Hawai'i Island. our `ohana, our cats, and our island This message was sent by Brandon Young-hansen via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Brandon Young-hansen at bkyh12Pyahoo.com. From: Sent: To: Subject: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Mary Zahler <advocate@maii.actionbutton.org> Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:31 AM Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Vn I RECEIVED To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Timele I VOM By 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 — and join us in supporting humane, effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary care that's out of reach Pet -averse rentals, forcing people to give up animals Trying To Feed their pets despite rising living costs When families surrender pets — often dumped at transfer stations, parks, or shopping centers —what emerges is labeled "community cats." These cats aren'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 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 Zahler via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Mary Zahler at gmlzahlerPgmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of James Zampathas <advocate@maiLactionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:11 AM COUNTY CLERK To: Council Testimony COUNTY OF HA*AI' I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED Time l�%e RECEIVED (��� �_ ; 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 effective, and proven strategies. THE REALITY ON THE GROUND Families across our island face: Spay/neuter costs they can't afford Veterinary 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 `oh-arra BEFORE pets are surrendered: Free or low-cost spay/neuter services Affordable veterinary and wellness clinics Protections for renters with pets Emergency pet food assistance PRONG TWO: Effectively Manage Community Cat Populations Deploy proven, humane methods to stabilize and reduce colonies: TNVR (Trap -Neuter -Vaccinate -Return -Manage) programs —the only population -control approach that works. Adoption programs for sociable or friendly cats Certified colony caretakers, with: Monitoring and identification tools Wildlife -safe, posted feeding stations Management and conservation training Strategic relocation from sensitive environments Networks of fosters 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 James Zampathas via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to James Zampathas at virtualCcbhawaii.rr.com. From: advocate@maiI.actionbutton.org on behalf of Tetiana Zhydkova <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 11:25 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLcRx Subject: Bill 51 -STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAKAI'IRECEIVED Time i l B JUL y2��5 Date 2 2 , 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 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 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 Tetiana Zhydkova via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Tetiana Zhydkova at 18031989t(c-ogmail.com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of David Zimmerman <advocate@ mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 10:47 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK COUNTY OF HAWAI'I Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED RECEIVED UV,, J V To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date _ 1q 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 David Zimmerman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to David Zimmerman at i love short70(a)me com. From: advocate@mail.actionbutton.org on behalf of Jackie Zimmerman <advocate@mail.actionbutton.org> Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 8:52 AM To: Council Testimony COUNTY CLERK Subject: Bill 51 - STRONGLY OPPOSED COUNTY OF HAWAI' I �IVED Time'��By To Mayor Kimo Alameda and the Hawaii County Council: Date JUL 2 ') 0`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 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 Jackie Zimmerman via ActionButton, on behalf of Kahu Popoki - Care For Our Cat Ohana. Please reply to Jackie Zimmerman at zimmermanj546 gmail com.