Alpena residents urge council to reject proposed feral cat feeding ban

Three Alpena residents used the council's public-comment period on Feb. 16 to urge rejection of a proposed ordinance that would ban feeding feral cats in the city. Nancy McSwain, an Alpena resident, told the council that "feeding is not the problem" and that the most effective and humane approach is "trap, neuter, return," saying communities that implement TNR have documented "population declines of 30 to 50% over several years."

Julie Gondula, an Alpena resident, asked the council to use caution when drafting ordinances driven by complaints and to favor science-based, long-term solutions. She told council members that urban ecosystems are distinct and that community (feral) cats can play a role in pest control, arguing that immediate bans or removal can produce unintended increases in pests.

Lou Anne Benak, an Alpena resident, said she was "very much against the ban" and urged more education and community support for TNR programs rather than criminalizing volunteers who care for colonies.

The comments came after the presiding official announced the council would delay action on the ordinance until April 20 to allow additional meetings with county officials and staff follow-up. No formal action on the substance of a feeding ban was taken at the Feb. 16 meeting; the remarks were part of the public-comment period and reflected residents' concerns and proposed alternatives rather than a council decision.

The council's next step on the ordinance is the rescheduled second reading, set for April 20, 2026, when council members indicated they expect further intergovernmental meetings and staff work to inform the debate.