Hello,

The animal stray population in Berea is significantly increasing. I think all of my fellow Bereans will agree that the number of stray animals in the city is possibly at an all-time high. The purpose of this petition is to demonstrate to the City Council how concerned the citizens of Berea are and that it is now time for action to assist in alleviating this problem. The situation will not get any better unless the City Council knows that there are concerns and hears directly from the citizens.

While there are many actions a city may take, I would propose a city ordinance similar to other cities in the United States that places regulations on backyard breeders. Breeders of dogs and cats for sale will need to register with the city to reduce the number of unwanted animals. The ordinance would require a $200 per-year registration fee for breeders and those found to be violating the ordinance would be fined $500. Money gained from this ordnance can offer a low cost spay/neuter program. Currently low cost spay/neuter programs exist however, the waiting list to get in may take several months. During the wait, the animal in question may already have a litter of dogs/cats contributing to the overpopulation. Any excess of monetary funds may go to the county animal shelter or local rescues. 

Additionally, the city of Berea needs a Trap, Neuter, or Spay (TNR) program. Cats are overwhelming neighborhoods and a TNR program will lower shelter euthanasia rates, reduce the cat population and spread of disease. Trying to rescue all the cats in this area is an impossible task at this point and doing nothing will continue to contribute to the overpopulation problem we currently have.

These are just some of my ideas. I invite all community members who are generally concerned with this to make their ideas known as well and email the Berea City Council. citycouncil@bereaky.gov

The shelters are full and good citizens are now taking it upon themselves and paying out of pocket (those that can afford it) to manage this situation. Local businesses should be concerned about this aspect as this is less money for those with disposable income to be spent in the area. Additionally, as tourism is a concern for Berea and we are so focused on growth, a tourist will not want to continue to visit the area with a large stray population.

Once we have a significant number of signatures, from citizens that are residents of Berea, I would then like to deliver them to the Berea City Council and discuss the concerns of the community. My target for discussion would be before November as, City Council Elections are in November and everyone that is concerned about this issue may know where our current elected officials stance is so that we can be informed at the polls.