Polices to manage animals aren’t working
Hawaii County’s animal welfare policies and approach are failing, wasting taxpayer dollars on outdated, ineffective strategies while thousands of animals and people suffer.
Despite overwhelming evidence that Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) of cats is the only proven humane and cost-effective solution, our government remains stuck in an endless cycle of capturing, sheltering and euthanizing animals, or does nothing — none of which solve the problem.
The facts are clear: TNR humanely reduces cat populations, lowers shelter intake, and saves taxpayer money. Yet, bureaucratic delays and resistance to modern approaches keep Hawaii locked in outdated, inhumane policies as populations grow unchecked.
Aloha Animal Alliance has presented a science-backed, community-supported plan developed and reviewed by experts that includes sterilization, designated feeding areas away from sensitive wildlife zones, and ongoing proactive and tracked colony management. This approach aligns with public health, conservation goals and fiscal responsibility.
Despite initial support from County Council members, decision-makers continue to stall while the cat population grows unchecked. Each delay means more suffering, more taxpayer waste and more frustration for residents who want humane solutions.
It’s time for leadership and agencies like the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Animal Control to stop debating and start acting. Or, they should just get out of the way.
We call on Hawaii County officials to adopt a data-driven, humane and cost-effective companion animal management policy now. The community demands better — our leaders must stop wasting resources on failed methods and start investing in real solutions.
Our animals and wildlife deserve it. View the full plan at alohaanimals.org.
Contact your elected officials today and demand action!
Lisa Lane Cardin
Co-founder,
Aloha Animal Alliance
Protesters need to vote in next election
I have a question for all the protesters.
Where were you on Election Day? Sixty-four percent of eligible voters voted.
For all the protesters who didn’t vote, if you get the time and energy to protest, please vote in the next election.
Evalina Medrano
Hilo
