Dear Mayor McCartney and Esteemed Members of the West Orange Town Council,

We, the undersigned residents and concerned citizens of West Orange, respectfully submit this petition to request the issuance of a pardon and the implementation of a protection ordinance for turkeys within the West Orange limits.

Turkeys are a vital part of our local ecosystem and contribute to the natural beauty of our town. These intelligent and gentle creatures have a right to coexist peacefully in their natural habitat, just like any other wildlife.

In recent days, we have noticed an increase in turkey populations in West Orange, especially with the arrival of "TURKULES".  Clearly, we do not want to see this leading to occasional conflicts and misunderstandings between humans and these birds.  While it is crucial to address these concerns, we believe that a protection ordinance and a pardon can create a balanced solution that preserves the well-being of both residents and turkeys.

We propose the following actions:

Pardon for our newest visiting resident TURKULES  and other Turkeys: We kindly request that the Mayor's Office issue a yearly pardon for turkeys during the Thanksgiving season. This symbolic gesture can help raise awareness about the importance of coexistence with these creatures and encourage humane treatment.

Protection Ordinance: We urge the West Orange Council to draft and enact a protection ordinance for turkeys. This ordinance should include guidelines for responsible behavior around turkeys, promote educational programs about turkey behavior, and encourage the use of non-lethal methods to address potential conflicts. In addition, road signs along Pleasant Valley Way to alert drivers of potential Turkey Crossing. Furthermore, it should emphasize the importance of maintaining the natural habitat of these birds.

By implementing a pardon and protection ordinance for turkeys, we can foster a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife while maintaining the natural beauty of our town.

We, the undersigned, believe that this is an important step in preserving the rich biodiversity and the quality of life in our community. We kindly request that you consider our petition and take the necessary steps to protect and coexist with the turkey population in West Orange.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to positive actions that will not only benefit the turkeys but also enhance West Orange's reputation as a place that values and protects its natural heritage.