May 9, 2006

Dear Concerned Citizens:

     Knowing of your interest in issues relating to pet overpopulation, I'm writing to share some good news. Together with City Council President Hyde and other council members, I have identified additional funding for the Low-Income Pet Owners Spay/Neuter Program for the current fiscal year.

     On April 11, President Hyde and I introduced legislation to provide another $83,066 to this important program. City Council members and I agreed to utilize $50,000 from the Mayor's Office/City Council Joint reserves and $33,066 from the Animal Care and Control (AC & C) Spay and Neuter Rebate. These funds, combined with the [initial] $65,000 from the AC & C operating budget and a carryover of $63,277 from last year will provide a 2005-2006 budget for this vital program of $211,343 nearly as much as the program spent last year.

     I'm extremely pleased that we were able to identify additional funds for this important program, and I appreciate the close collaboration of our City Council on this issue. As an animal lover and pet owner, I strongly believe in the importance of spaying and neutering, and these resources will help to support that vital activity.

     Thank you for your interest in our city and in issues affecting companion animals. I hope this information is helpful to you.

Sincerely,

John Peyton
Mayor