By Taylor Johnson
Copyright hoodline
In the heart of Tempe, a new subcommittee has emerged with a sole focus on promoting animal welfare. The Animal Welfare and Cruelty Council Subcommittee, freshly minted and ready to raise the bar for the treatment of animals, is gearing up to hold its inaugural meeting. Scheduled for September 30 at Tempe City Hall, the meeting invites community members to participate in person or dial in virtually, enhancing accessibility in a move that aligns with the city’s inclusive approach.
Under the leadership of Councilmember Berdetta Hodge, along with Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid and Councilmember Jennifer Adams, this subcommittee isn’t just fluff and feathers. With the recent state-wide animal protection laws signed by Governor Katie Hobbs, this subcommittee takes the baton to fine-tune local ordinances. Councilmember Hodge, speaking to the urgency of the matter, emphasized, “This effort comes at a critical time.”
Among their first orders of business, the subcommittee plans to undertake a comprehensive review of Tempe’s animal cruelty ordinance. They will look to identify potential enhancements that could fortify the city’s stance against abuse and ensure stronger safeguards for their four-legged and feathered residents. Additionally, assessing the city’s needs regarding animal-related services is on the agenda, alongside strategies to enhance collaborations with notable welfare organizations, such as Lost Our Home Pet Rescue and Maricopa County Animal Care and Control.
In the heart of the city’s pilot efforts, information inquiries are welcome. Vanessa Lopez, Council Assistant, has been tapped to field any arising questions, reachable at 480-350-8597. This initiative represents a concrete step forward for animal advocacy, driving home the point that in Tempe, creatures great and small have a dedicated voice in the urban chorus.
