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2 New Business: (A) Nuisance Provisions for Cats in Unified Animal Ordinance: Bob Marotto gave a brief history, prior to the Ordinance, of the definition of a nuisance cat and the regulation of cats who were observed “off-property.” He also explained the rationale for developing current code that distinguished cats from dogs and used language from Carrboro’s code. Irene Phipps described the nature of complaint calls about nuisance cats and her communications with various complainants about violations of the Ordinance. There is already language in the Ordinance that refers to habitual behaviors of the cat that are in violation. Complainants do question what are the measure and proof for “habitual.” The current enforcement includes administrative penalties in incrementally increasing amounts from$100-$300; impoundment; and the implied authority of the Ordinance to remove the animal from Orange County. There is a perceived need to address nuisance cats causing displaced aggression of another cat toward a human or other animal while also better defining “habitual” and “at large.” A working definition of “nuisance” could be explored in terms of interfering in the reasonable use and enjoyment of one’s property. This needs to be accomplished under the guidance of the Co. Attorney. Additional discussion will be brought to future meetings. (B) 2017 Statistical Highlights: Andi Morgan gave a report of animal control statistics for 2017. Majority of calls are for bites and stray animals. This is consistent with most years. There is slight increase in bite/ exposure or neglect. Statistics by township and shelter statistics were presented, including increases in live releases (90% adjusted) and historical decreases in intake (4486 to 2740) in spite of a growing population during same time period (2005-2017). Adoptions are up with 1707 for the year. Euthanasia outcomes are reduced to 379 (highest was 2008 at 2089). (C) Animal Services Updates: Valentine’s Day Special was ongoing for February. Spay and Neuter Day is the 27th. Work on the continuation budget means no increases in requests for expenditures and that any increases in costs for staffing have to be absorbed. Some monies have been shifted to offset costs. Outside agency funding is possible. Bob Marotto met with Adult Care Home Advisory Committee representative regarding pet placement in adult care homes. Coyote information has been offered. WHUP interviews are planned on different subjects. There has been a cat café inquiry. Proposed fee schedule increases were presented. Warren Porter made a motion to support the fee increases as presented; seconded by Beth Grooms. The motion carried without dissent. Information Items (made available): (A) Monthly Sheltering Statistical Reports, Jan 2018 (B) Monthly Field Service Statistical Report, Jan 2018 Adjournment and next meeting: Michelle Walker made a motion to adjourn at 8:15pm; Judy Miller seconded. Motion carried without dissent. The next meeting is March 21, 2018 at 6:30 pm, Orange County Animal Services Center. Minutes taken: Victoria Hudson