During a recent city council meeting, discussions centered on a proposed amendment aimed at enhancing public safety by regulating the feeding of feral animals in public parks and city-owned properties. The amendment, introduced by a council member, seeks to prevent potential hazards posed by wild animals, particularly feral cats, in areas frequented by families and children.

The council member emphasized the importance of the amendment, citing concerns about children’s safety in public parks where feral animals might pose a risk. The proposal specifically targets city-owned properties, including vacant lots, but does not extend to private parking lots, such as those belonging to businesses like Walmart.

Council members raised questions regarding the implications of the ordinance, particularly concerning the feeding of wildlife on private property. One member noted that while the ordinance does not explicitly address feeding animals on private land, issues could potentially be managed under existing laws related to trespassing or nuisance.

Another point of contention was the feeding of deer on personal property, which some council members felt might not be adequately exempted under the current wording of the ordinance. A suggestion was made to amend the language to clarify that feeding wildlife, specifically deer, on one’s own property could be permissible unless it becomes a nuisance.

The council agreed to consider these amendments before moving forward with the ordinance. The discussions highlighted the balance the council seeks to strike between allowing residents to engage with wildlife responsibly while ensuring public safety and community standards are upheld. The council plans to finalize the amendments and proceed with the ordinance in the coming days.