The San Antonio Public Safety Committee voted to send proposed language creating a sanctuary designation and limiting resident capture of exotic birds to the full City Council after a presentation and community feedback.

John Harritt, who led the presentation, described the proposal as “una política para proteger esos animales” and outlined a three‑phase approach: community education, population stabilization and an annual population count, and humane capture by professionals only when necessary. Harritt said the area of concern is a small neighborhood cluster — “como unas... 3 o 4 manzanas” — where residents have reported rising numbers of peacocks and other exotic birds and where a February 25 community meeting drew roughly 30 attendees with mixed views about the birds.

Councilmember Alderete Gabito, sponsor of the council‑initiated community request (CCR), said staff revised some previously confusing language and emphasized the role of professionals in any capture: “Quisiera hacer una proponer que se mande estos cambios al consejo completo.” The committee chair put the motion and it passed by voice vote; no roll‑call tally was recorded.

The presenters said the proposed ordinance language would aim to (1) discourage residents from feeding or relocating the birds, (2) direct captures to trained professionals so animals are moved humanely and placed where they will be safe, and (3) create a mechanism for an annual count to monitor population growth. Harritt said staff will consult other professionals to improve the accuracy of the planned counts and expects the first count to occur “en el siguiente mes, más o menos.”

Members noted that some residents love the birds while others have raised concerns about nuisance behavior and yard damage. Alderete Gabito thanked staff members who worked on the item and asked that the changes be transmitted to the full council for consideration.

Next steps: the committee referred the updated CCR language to the full City Council for review and possible ordinance action.