Title
Discussion and Possible Action on Wildlife Feeding Ordinance
Recommended Action
I move that Council direct the County Manager to implement the draft ordinance changes and return to Council with a revised ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife in the County.
OR
I move that Council consider additional input and analysis as specified before returning to Council with a revised ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife in the County.
Body
On December 12, 2023, County Council discussed the draft Wildlife Feeding Ordinance and reviewed community feedback. County Council reviewed, discussed and approved the 2024 Wildlife Education Plan, in lieu of an ordinance, and requested an update one year following the approval and implementation.
On December 17, 2024, County Council passed a motion that directed the County Manager to return to Council with an ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife in the County, with further consideration of how the local enforcement is coordinated with the New Mexico Game and Fish Department.
On January 14, 2025, County Council passed a motion that directed the county manager to return to Council with additional input and analysis as specified, including traffic accident data and experience from the town of Ruidoso and other information as appropriate before returning to council with a revised ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife in the county. County Council modified to accommodate Council and public comments that have been received to date.
This is the updated draft ordinance for further Council discussion and consideration. If Council supports the draft ordinance with the changes, the ordinance will have to return to Council as an Introduction and Pubic Hearing.
Alternatives
Council could choose not to pursue a new ordinance consideration or direct the County Manager to gather further public input.
Fiscal and Staff Impact/Planned Item
Fiscal impacts have not been evaluated. The Public Information ...
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