July 28,2009, work session
Background: in November, 2007, the board authorized $5,000 for a program that would trap feral cats, have the neutered and then put back in the environment. Kittens are “socialized” before being put out for adoption. The program, coordinated by James Waterhouse, the town's animal control officer and a volunteer, has run out of money, which is the reason for the current board review and discussion.

There are many colonies of feral cats in town which apparently are being fed by residents. According to Town Clerk Alice Roker, it would be considered animal cruelty to tell people to stop feeding these cats. The problem is that the cats go onto private property and create problems for homeowners who are not feeding them. One homeowner adjacent to the bike path said his backyard was unusable because of cat feces and fighting cats. A person feeds the cats every afternoon.

Melinda, the volunteer working on the program, reported on her efforts to trap colonies in different parts of town. She also advised the homeowner to spread coffee grounds on his property (fresh or used) as the cats didn't like them.

According to Ms. Roker, the trap and release program is a nationally recognized way to deal with the problem although the police do try to get the cooperation of residents who feed the cats when they respond to complaints.

The board agreed to appropriate another $5,000 to continue the program.