St. Johns County continues to utilize a “catch and kill” approach to community cat management. This method is widely discredited as ineffective, fiscally wasteful, and contrary to modern, science-based animal control standards.

Despite the availability of proven alternatives, the County has failed to implement a Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) program, thereby perpetuating a cycle of  unnecessary taxpayer expenditure.

The Petitioners assert the following facts, supported by scientific research, statewide data, and municipal outcomes:

TNVR is a scientifically validated method that directly addresses the root cause of feline overpopulation—unchecked reproduction.

Studies conducted in Florida, including research led by the University of Florida, demonstrate:

-Up to 70% reduction in shelter intake
-Up to 95% reduction in euthanasia rates within two years of TNVR implementation

Counties within Florida that have adopted TNVR and Return-to-Field programs have experienced:

-Increased live release rates

-Decreased shelter overcrowding
Improved public health outcomes through rabies vaccination

The current “catch and kill” model produces the “vacuum effect,” whereby removed cats are rapidly replaced by new, unsterilized populations, resulting in:

-No sustained population reduction
-Continuous intake and euthanasia cycles
Ongoing and repetitive public expenditure

TNVR programs have demonstrated long-term population declines of up to 66%, effectively stabilizing and reducing community cat populations over time.

Continued reliance on lethal control, in light of available alternatives, constitutes inefficient use of public funds and failure to implement the best humane practices.

This Petition is based upon the following grounds:

Failure of Fiscal Responsibility: Allocation of taxpayer funds toward a repetitive and ineffective system that does not resolve the underlying issue.

Failure to Implement Evidence-Based Policy: 

Disregard of established scientific data and successful models within the State of Florida.

Lack of Transparency: Absence of publicly available data justifying the continuation of current practices.

Public Interest Concern: Ongoing harm to community trust, animal welfare, and efficient governance.

Further, the continued refusal to adopt TNVR—particularly under the direction or influence of Mr. Studivant—raises concerns regarding administrative decision-making and accountability.

WHEREFORE, Petitioners respectfully but firmly demand that the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners:

Immediately adopt and implement a County-supported TNVR program, including Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return and Return-to-Field initiatives.

Establish clear, measurable benchmarks for success, including reductions in intake, euthanasia, and overall population.

Provide full financial transparency, including a detailed record of all animal control expenditures.
Release all data, reports, and internal communications relied upon in maintaining the current policy.
Commission an independent audit or review of animal control operations and outcomes.
Engage with qualified TNVR experts, veterinarians, and nonprofit organizations to develop and implement best practices.

Petitioners hereby place the County on notice that failure to act may result in:

-Formal public records requests pursuant to Chapter 119, Florida Statutes (Sunshine Law)
Escalation to appropriate state oversight or regulatory bodies
-Coordinated public advocacy and media engagement

This issue is of substantial public concern.

Continued inaction will be interpreted as a conscious disregard for scientific evidence, fiscal responsibility, and the will of the community.

”THERE IS UNITY IN COMMUNITY! WHERE THERE IS UNITY, THERE IS POWER!”