MOGADORE, Ohio (WJW) – A village council meeting in Mogadore turned contentious on Wednesday night as residents clashed over a controversial plan to manage the surging population of feral cats.
Back in May, the Mogadore council passed a law that criminalized the feeding of feral cats, with violators facing a $150 fine. Additionally, the village agreed to cover the $25 fee Summit County Animal Control charges each time a resident brings in a feral cat. At the shelter, the cats are either euthanized or put up for adoption.
Reports show that out of the first 20 cats taken to the shelter, 15 were euthanized. This has sparked outrage among animal rights activists and some residents.
During Wednesday’s meeting, Mogadore resident Eddie Plotts voiced his disapproval, asking, “Is Mogadore home of the Wildcats, or a cold-hearted community increasingly known for killing cats?”
Another animal rights advocate condemned the village’s actions, stating, “I’m ashamed to have Mogadore on my mailing address. This is inhumane, and I question whether anyone did any research before deciding on this plan.”
Animal welfare groups have criticized the village’s $25 payments to animal control, likening it to a “bounty” on the feral cats. However, many locals, including residents and business owners, see the cats as a public menace.
“I appreciate the suggestions to help, but they’re not addressing the real problem. These cats are damaging property,” said Mogadore resident Holly Spohn.
In contrast, animal rights activists have raised over $1,400 to fund a humane alternative: a trap-neuter-release (TNR) program. Advocates argue that this method, which involves capturing the cats, spaying or neutering them, and then releasing them back into the wild, would gradually reduce the feral cat population in a natural and non-lethal way.
Jill Kirsch, who runs Cripple Creek Ferals and Friends, believes the community’s financial support sends a strong message. “TNR is the humane option. People don’t want these cats harmed, and they’re willing to support the cause.”
When asked about the program by FOX 8, Mogadore Mayor Mike Rick acknowledged that village officials were troubled by the high euthanasia rate in the early stages of the plan. He said Summit County Animal Control is now working with a rescue shelter that specializes in rehabilitating and finding homes for feral cats.
As the debate continues, both sides remain deeply divided over the future of Mogadore’s feral cats, with no clear resolution in sight.
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