Mayor Ken Cockayne issued the following statement this week about the issue of feral cats at Bonnie Acress:
“Over the weekend, I began receiving emails and notifications through social media about an issue with feral cats on the Bonnie Acres property at the Bristol Housing Authority. A petition was actually started alleging that Bristol was starving freezing cats and kittens. It is disappointing to me that so many on social media have reported mistruths and that so many more have believed what is posted as the truth.
“First and foremost, the public should know that as mayor of the City of Bristol, I have no direct control over the Housing Authority, which is not a city agency. However, let me set the record straight. This morning I immediately contacted the Bristol Housing Authority Executive Director and the chairman. It has been reported to me that last Thursday, Jan. 8, the Housing Authority contacted an agency to provide TNR (Trap, Neuter and Return) services at Bonnie Acres. Reportedly, nine stray cats have been identified. Food has been laid out in one area to attract the cats so they can be caught. Residents who were feeding the cats were instructed to stop feeding so that the cats go to the identified area to feed. This is an appropriate and humane course of action.
“The general issue of feral cats will be discussed in greater detail at the Tuesday, Jan. 20meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority, held at 6:30 p.m. at the Cambridge Park Community Center. Those interested are encouraged to attend. Thank you to the Bristol Housing Authority for their swift action on this matter.”
