LTC 325-2013 Cat Feeding Stations - Pilot Program M
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
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NO. LTC # S o ? 3
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LETTER TO COMMISSION
TO: Mayor Matti Herrera Bower and embers of th ity Commission
FROM: Jimmy Morales, City Manager
DATE: August 26, 2013
SUBJECT: Cat Feeding Stations - Pilot Pro ram
The purpose of this LTC is to inform you that the City of Miami Beach Community
Outreach Team is working with The Cat Network, Inc. to address some of the concerns
raised from the community regarding feeding of cats directly on the boardwalk.
In March, 2012, PetSmart Charities awarded the City of Miami Beach $80,000 for a two
year period to trap, neuter and release (TNR) 2000 free roaming cats. The City entered
into an agreement with The Cat Network, Inc to implement the program funded by
PetSmart Charities. To date, approximately 1200 cats have been spayed and neutered.
Cat feeders are part of the solution to controlling the numbers.of cats on Miami Beach.
Four people feed over 200 cats daily in the boardwalk area. Not only do.they feed the
cats but also monitor the free roaming population for any special attention that is
required to keep them healthy.
In collaboration with The Cat Network, Inc., it is proposed to implement a one month pilot
program that will place cat feeding stations below the boardwalk. The stations will help
to contain the food and keep out of site of the general public. It will be more
manageable for the feeders and they will be able to maintain a clean and litter free area.
Laws require that all food and dishes be picked up following each feeding. The Cat
Network, Inc. has assumed the costs for building the feeding stations. There is no cost
to the City.
The Miami Beach Police Department newly designated Animal Resource Officer, Code
Compliance Department, Public Works Property Management Division and Community
Outreach, work closely to assist in support of the efforts and also provide educational
i information to those involved in the campaign. Many feeders participate in the trap,
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neuter, release program (TNR) conducted by The Cat Network, Inc.
Should you have any additional questions, please contact Lynn W. Bernstein,
Community Outreach Coordinator, City Manager's Office, 305 - 673 -7010.
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