10182005 Regular Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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Regular Meeting October 18, 2005 148. Page 9 stated he likes the clarity of the New Braunfels Ordinance regarding the safe transport of animals in motor vehicles. He stated he feels San Marcos should have an Ordinance of this type regarding safe transport of animals in motor vehicles. Mr. Guerrero inquired as to the commuters who pass through San Marcos. Mr. O'Leary stated the enforcement of the Ordinance would be at the discretion of the Police Department. The Council agreed by consensus for Staff to bring back an Ordinance similar to the New Braunfels Ordinance. Mr. O'Leary provided a powerpoint presentation regarding TNR, trap-neuter-release program. Mr. Guerrero thanked Staff for providing the options used at Texas A&M and the University of Texas. Bert Stratemann, Director of Animal Shelter, stated Texas State University has been conducting a TNR program of their own on their campus. Mr. Taylor asked Staff to provide more information regarding the University's TNR program. Mr. Mihalkanin stated he is concerned about the cost of these programs. He also inquired if the TRN program would help reduce the cost at the Animal Shelter. Mr. Stratemann, stated spaying, neutering and education would reduce the daily operation cost for housing pregnant animals and their unwanted litters. Mr. Taylor inquired whether the City would have any liability or immunity if the City sanctions a TNR program. Mr. Mark Taylor stated he would research to see if the City would have any liability or immunity for a TNR program. Mr. Guerrero inquired as to the number of cats taken into the Animal Shelter, which are returned to the owners. Mr. Stratemann stated 10% of cats, which come to the Animal Shelter are returned to the owners. Mr. Taylor stated he supports the idea of paying one time for the spaying or neutering of a pet per household. He also stated he would like Staff to research to see if the Texas Wildlife opposes TNR programs. Mayor Narvaiz stated there are certain areas of San Marcos that have a larger problem with stray cats. She asked Staff to research the areas of town the City might use the TNR program instead of in the middle of a neighborhood. Mr. Thomaides stated he feels the City might consider partnering with vets and mobile spay units to help with spay and neutering. He also stated he feels the City might consider looking at a PILOT program if spaying and neutering. Mayor Narvaiz asked Staff to bring back the cost of adding a facility to the Animal Shelter for spaying and neutering. The Council agreed by consensus to research the liability for spaying and neutering at the Animal Shelter. Mayor Narvaiz introduced a discussion regarding update on Wonder World Drive Extension, Overpass and Aquarena Overpass. Ms. Laurie Anderson, Director of Engineering, stated the Wonder World Drive Overpass estimated completion date is February 2007. She stated currently construction has begun on both sides of the frontage road. She also stated the bridge structure will begin next summer, which will include sidewalks and bike paths. Ms. Anderson stated on Wonder World Extension there was discussion to include sidewalks and bike paths with this project. She stated the Staff is waiting on the decision from TxDOT about the pass through toll. She stated she anticipates construction to begin in 2008. Ms. Anderson