During the September 17th meeting of Ambler’s borough council, a resident of Belmont Avenue raised the issue of feral cats in the neighborhood. According to the resident, another resident regularly feeds the cats, which has led to an increase in the number of cats (including kittens) and other animals in the area.

The Borough of Ambler does not have an ordinance to address this issue and a state law the council thought may address the problem was found not to be relevant.

During the October 1st meeting, the public safety committee voted 7-0 to recommend advertising an ordinance that would prohibit the feeding of stray and feral cats. Those found to be in violation of the ordinance would be fined $50, which could escalate to up to $500 for a fourth offense. Violating the ordinance could also lead to up to 30 days in jail.

The ordinance will now be considered for adoption during the council’s October 15th meeting. The text of the ordinance is here (starting on page 19).