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CFAR
has been in the news recently as the story of our move reaches the public
consciousness. For the benefit of all, we would like to present a series
of facts to avoid confusion about this project.
Myth 1: CFAR can move wherever it wants to.
Fact: The land that we choose to move to
must be zoned agricultural, and have a minimum of 5 acres. For the number
of cats that we have, we would prefer a facility of at least 15 acres.
Myth 2: Private, undisclosed donors are
funding this project.
Fact: There have been no donors that have
come forth at this time to provide complete funding for the project. CFAR
receives no federal or state funding to maintain its facility. Pledges of
monetary support for the move are greatly appreciated!
Email for
more information.
Myth 3: CFAR is moving 80 cats to Northern
Brevard.
Fact: CFAR only has 51 cats. The 80
cat figure is being fabricated from a proposed drawing from our architect as a
requirement of applying for Brevard County's Conditional Use Permit.
Breeding is not part of our program presently or for the future.
Myth 4: If the organization goes under or
falls on bad times, the cats may be abandoned.
Fact: Florida Fish and Wildlife has the
authority to confiscate cats that are abandoned.
Myth 5: The cats will escape from their
enclosures and run free. Fact: Caging
requirements are dictated by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and
Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) and are very safe. Our enclosure
design includes flooring to prevent digging and roofs to prevent climbing out.
They have the strength to withstand hurricanes. Multiple personnel are
always on site during a storm to ensure the safety of the cat residents and the
public. We have also been through extremely close fire threats, and have
emergency procedures that address both situations.
Myth 6: Odors and sounds will bother
neighbors. Fact: Unlike
grazing livestock, the cats are
picked up after every day (both excrement and uneaten food). Odors are
minimal and localized. The sounds and verbalizations are present, but not
offensive and many neighbors greatly enjoy them.
Myth 7: Neighbors are worried about the cats.
Fact: Out current and past immediate neighbors on
either side of our facility have been great supporters and enjoy the cats.
There is always a vocal minority, but many people do not want to see the cats
leave the current neighborhood.
Myth 8: Cats will be "just feet" from
neighbor's homes.
Fact: A minimum of 300 feet easement is
required by regulation. |
