We call on all New Palestine residents, animal lovers, and those who believe in property rights, to join us in opposing the proposed changes to Ordinances 50.05, 50.06, and 50.10, set to be presented on April 16th. These ordinances threaten to drastically alter how property owners manage their properties and infringe upon the tenant-landlord agreement. Specifically worrisome is the proposed ban on all reptiles, arachnids, birds of prey, and other animals in apartments and multi-renter dwellings, regardless of what the tenant and landlord have mutually agreed upon. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports over 4.7 million households in the U.S. keep reptiles as pets, emphasizing the extent of the potential impact of these changes. Furthermore, these restrictions infringe on the rights of owners to utilize their properties according to their individual needs and agreements. Respect for private property rights is an important part of our American values and democracy. We therefore urge the New Palestine town council to reconsider these proposed changes and protect the rights of our community and our beloved pets. Please sign this petition and join us in ensuring our freedom to own and care for our pets responsibly.

By signing, you are letting the New Palestine Town Council know that you do not agree with any of these proposed changes, and will only consider changes that allow for ownership of all exotic pets, leaving the nuance to Indiana State Law instead of the Town of New Palestine.