Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
KERWOOD - An ongoing cat overpopulation problem in Kerwood has drawn public attention after being featured in a CTV News story. The problem, highlighted by frustrated local residents, persists despite years of efforts by the township to manage and mitigate its impacts.
During a council meeting on December 16, Michael Barnier, Clerk and Manager of Legislative Services, provided a detailed update on the township’s multifaceted approach to address both the cat issue and related by-law enforcement challenges. “Since 2018, we have removed 225 cats from the affected property, but the issue keeps growing,” Barnier explained, highlighting the complex nature of the situation. He noted the limited local expertise and resources available for animal control, which has prompted the township to seek help from external partners.
The Humane Society and the provincial Animal Welfare Services (AWS) have recently stepped in, equipped with a strategic plan and new funding to intensify efforts starting January 2025. “AWS and the Humane Society will begin a trapping and assessment program, where very sick cats will be humanely euthanized, and healthy ones will be spayed, neutered, and microchipped,” said Barnier, detailing the plan aimed at a sustainable reduction of the cat population.
The municipality has also been working on enhancing by-law enforcement with a focus on education and compliance. In collaboration with Middlesex Centre, Adelaide Metcalfe aims to improve property standards across the village, with initial outreach to occur over the winter months. An additional $25,000 has been allocated in the 2025 budget to bolster these efforts.
Morgan Calvert, CAO, emphasized the cooperative nature of the property owners involved in the situation. “They are collecting the cats to protect their welfare, but it has had unintended negative consequences for the surrounding landowners,” Calvert stated, acknowledging the complexities of balancing animal welfare with community impacts.
Mayor Sue Clarke expressed a cautious optimism about the ongoing efforts. “We have been aware of this issue and have been actively addressing it. It’s going to take time to resolve,” she remarked, underscoring the enduring nature of the problem and the sustained commitment required to tackle it.
