AGENDA ITEM REPORT
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AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY’S CODE OF ORDINANCES BY AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ENTITLED “ANIMALS,” TO PROHIBIT THE RELEASE OF WILD ANIMALS ON CITY PROPERTY, PROVIDING PENALITIES FOR VIOLATION, AND UPDATING TERMINOLOGY. (SECOND READING)(PUBLIC HEARING)
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BACKGROUND:
This item was approved on First Reading at the May 11, 2017, City Commission Meeting.
The purpose of this Ordinance is to deter the release of wild animals, including but not limited to raccoons, feral cats, possums, poisonous snakes, or other wild animals as classified by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on any City property. Attached for reference is an information package regarding nuisance wildlife.
DISCUSSION:
The City owns and maintains many natural preserves, and it is not unusual for various wildlife, such as raccoons, feral cats, possums, etc., to set up residence within them. Many of the aforementioned preserves are situated near or adjacent to residential properties, which can become a source for food and shelter under the right conditions, potentially causing damage to the residential property. In consideration that the City does not currently have any regulations regarding the release of trapped wild animals within the City, the preserves can become an attractive place for professional trappers to release their catches. It is in the City’s best interests to deter this practice.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of this Ordinance.
FISCAL IMPACT: N/A