City Will Consider Cheaper Way of Controlling Cat Population
By: David Oliver
Updated: October 29, 2012
Monday night, the Animal Issues Task Force talked about the growing problem of feral or abandoned cats.
The City says it costs about $75 to trap and then euthanize these animals. One option being considered is a trap, neuter and release program that would only cost the city $37 per animal.
Animal control officials say public awareness can also help minimize the problem.
"Look around your yard and see if you are inadvertently providing a safe harbor for these cats," says Karen Prescott. "If you have places under your porch that they're getting into, you don't want to make it too comfortable of an environment for them to be there."
The trap, neuter and return idea will eventually go before the City Council.
The Animal Issues Task Force was established by Springfield City Council in early 2012 for the purpose of "gaining public input and assistance in addressing the ever-increasing animal-related issues facing our community."
The group began meeting in spring 2012.
