We and our neighbors are deeply troubled by the closure of the Marion County Animal Services location on Baseline Road in Ocala. Many caring people in our communities have taken on the responsibility of trapping feral cats, getting them sterilized, and providing them with food and shelter, but we are facing an uphill battle. Not only has the Baseline location closed, but it is our understanding that the new location is severely limiting the number of cats brought in for sterilization surgeries. With both small and larger nonprofit rescues in our area overwhelmed with unwanted cats and kittens, we see Marion County taking a step backward instead of moving forward in addressing this growing problem.

The exponential growth of the feral cat population  is alarming, and those of us who care feel the absence of adequate support. It's heartbreaking to see so many animals in distress due to limited resources and facilities. Effective Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programs are crucial to managing and eventually reducing the feral cat population. These programs, however, require support, space, and funding that a dedicated TNR facility on Baseline Road could provide.

The closure of the Baseline Road Animal Services is a significant blow to our community's ability to manage stray and feral animal populations. We need this facility to be operational again, and a new focus on expanding TNR programs and facilities to serve the entire Marion County area. 

We urge the Marion County Board of County Commissioners to prioritize the reopening of the Animal Services location on Baseline Road, with an emphasis on the TNR program. We believe with education, adequate resources and community support, together we can create a compassionate and well-managed system for stray and feral animals in our county. County Commissioners, we urge you to help us to help Marion County! 

Please join us in urging Marion County Commissioners to take immediate action. Sign this petition to help reopen the Baseline Road Animal Services location, with renewed emphasis on the TNR program, and show that we care for the voiceless animals of Marion County.