June 9, 2026 Public Comments — Apple Valley City Council, June 9, 2026

Town of Apple Valley Town Council
Public Comments
June 9, 2026
Dear Town Manager and Members of the Town Council,
I am writing to express my severe concern and absolute opposition to the current operational and euthanasia practices at the Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS). It is a matter of urgent public record that healthy, highly adoptable animals are being euthanized at an alarming rate due to shelter management practices and space allocations.

As a California municipal facility, AVAS is funded by public tax dollars and is expected to operate with transparency, public accountability, and humaneness. Under California Civil Code Section 1834.4 and Food and Agricultural Code Section 31603 (The Hayden Act), it is the explicitly stated policy of the State of California that no adoptable or treatable animal should be euthanized if it can be adopted into a suitable home or released to a nonprofit animal rescue organization.

By severely shortening timelines, maintaining restrictive hours that limit public access, and creating administrative barriers for Approved Rescue Organizations (AROs) trying to pull "Urgent List" animals, AVAS is failing to meet the spirit, and arguably the legal obligations, of California’s humane mandates. Euthanizing healthy companion animals when rescues and networkers are actively stepping forward with placement options and pledges is an unacceptable misuse of community resources.

I am joining members of the community to demand immediate administrative reform, including:

1. Immediate extension of the "Urgent List" windows to give volunteers, transporters, and out-of-area rescues adequate time to coordinate safety nets.

2. Total transparency and streamlined communication workflows between the Rescue Coordinator division and active nonprofit rescue partners.

3. An independent audit of the shelter’s euthanasia triggers, live-release rate data, and compliance protocols regarding state rescue-override laws.

The public expects its local government to reflect the compassionate values of Californians. The systematic killing of healthy animals at AVAS must be investigated and corrected immediately. I look forward to your formal response regarding the actionable steps the Town intends to take to resolve this crisis.

Sincerely,
Erica Dukovich
To the Town of Apple Valley, Animal Services Leadership, Rescue Partners, Elected OƯicials, and Community Stakeholders,
I am sending this follow-up regarding the urgent request for euthanasia extensions for the dogs currently at Apple Valley Animal Shelter, including Karen #258010, Lady #257674, Robin #257985, Perdita #258859, and Pongo #258861.

These dogs deserve the opportunity to benefit from the increased adoption exposure, rescue networking, foster placement, and transport coordination associated with the upcoming 6/6/26 national adoption events and June adoption promotions.

It is deeply concerning that dogs continue to face euthanasia while Apple Valley Animal Shelter publicly participates in lifesaving initiatives connected to Bissell Pet Foundation and national “Empty the Shelters” style adoption campaigns. Programs associated with Bissell are intended to increase live outcomes and reduce unnecessary euthanasia through community engagement, rescue partnerships, and adoption visibility.

The public expects shelters participating in these nationally recognized lifesaving eƯorts to provide every reasonable opportunity for dogs to exit alive before euthanasia decisions are made.

At the same time, public scrutiny surrounding Apple Valley Animal Services continues to intensify. Reports published on November 5, 2025 referenced a lawsuit involving allegations of systemic mismanagement and mistreatment of animals within the Town of Apple Valley’s Animal Services department. According to San Bernardino County Superior Court documents, petitioners are represented by the Walter Clark Legal Group of Rancho Mirage.

Given the ongoing public concern regarding shelter transparency, euthanasia practices, and animal welfare standards, granting immediate extensions through the June 6 adoption events is both reasonable and necessary.

We respectfully ask for:
• Immediate euthanasia extensions through at least June 6, 2026 • Additional time for rescue coordination and foster placement • Cooperation with transport and out-of-state rescue partners • Increased transparency regarding euthanasia timelines • Good-faith lifesaving eƯorts consistent with the goals of nationally promoted adoption initiatives
These dogs are being actively networked by volunteers and advocates working tirelessly to secure placement. Every additional day can mean the diƯerence between life and death.

Please choose transparency, compassion, and lifesaving.

Sincerely,
Loretta Alva
We are concerned that behavior notes for this dog have not been provided despite multiple requests. As this is a time-sensitive situation involving a dog facing a deadline, access to behavioral information is critical for potential adopters, rescue organizations, and members of the public attempting to assist.

Behavior notes help ensure informed placement decisions and provide important context regarding the dog's needs, temperament, and any concerns that may have been observed while in your care.

If the notes cannot be released, please provide the specific policy or legal basis for withholding them. Transparency is especially important when a dog's future is at stake, and withholding information only creates additional public concern and uncertainty.

We respectfully request that the behavior notes be provided as soon as possible so that all parties can make informed decisions regarding this dog's placement and welfare.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

William Henry Ashford
Hi 蹉蹊蹋蹌蹍蹎蹏蹐蹑
I've neutered 28 cats so far and paid full price for the last three. We're in our late 60's and on a fixed income...

There's friggin cats everywhere...lol
I had a source for the first 19 but that is no longer available. The town has done 6 through a couple programs...

Please initiate a regular free and regular TNVR program...

Grant Mealey
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats. I have been disappointed by many things the counsel has failed to accomplish, so please remedy this agregious animal welfare issue, and it would go far to mend feelings against the Counsel.

In August 2025, a TNVR program was made available to residents, allowing up to four vouchers per person for feral/community cats. However, it appears that this program was quickly no longer available.

Currently, the only known spay/neuter assistance is the Lange Foundation Intervention Program. While this eƯort is appreciated and helpful, a public funded TNVR program is urgently needed.

There is currently no accessible, structured TNVR program for community cats in Apple Valley. This is serious need during unprecedented times of overpopulation and cruelty of stray pets.

At the same time:

The shelter has adopted a managed intake policy for cats that is euthanize heavy.

Many community members are reporting increasing numbers of kittens and unaltered cats this spring.

Residents are actively seeking help for outdoor cats but have limited options with overwhelming need. When these conditions occur together — limited intake and no TNVR infrastructure — community cats are left without a clear pathway for care.

TNVR is widely recognized as the most eƯective and humane method to:

1. Reduce outdoor cat populations over time steadily.

2. Prevent repeated litters, especially during peak kitten season.

3. Reduce shelter intake and long-term costs

4. Support both animal welfare and community concerns.

Without a functioning TNVR program, the current system places increasing pressure on:

Residents
Rescues and volunteers
And ultimately the shelter system itself
I respectfully request that the Town:
• Establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR program for community cats • Ensure adequate capacity to meet actual community demand • Provide clear public information on eligibility and access • Consider expanding services during peak kitten season A sustainable TNVR program is a critical component of any eƯective community cat strategy, especially under a managed intake model.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Connie Stinson
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

Currently, the only known spay/neuter assistance is the Lange Foundation Intervention Program. While this eƯort is appreciated and helpful, a public funded TNVR program is urgently needed
There is currently no accessible, structured TNVR program for community cats in Apple Valley.

At the same time:
 The shelter has adopted a managed intake policy for cats  Many community members are reporting increasing numbers of kittens and unaltered cats this spring
 Residents are actively seeking help for outdoor cats but have limited options When these conditions occur together — limited intake and no TNVR infrastructure — community cats are left without a clear pathway for care.

TNVR is widely recognized as the most eƯective and humane method to:
 Reduce outdoor cat populations over time
 Prevent repeated litters, especially during peak kitten season  Reduce shelter intake and long-term costs
 Support both animal welfare and community concerns
Without a functioning TNVR program, the current system places increasing pressure on:
 Residents
 Rescues and volunteers
 And ultimately the shelter system itself
I respectfully request that the Town:
• Establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR program for community cats • Ensure adequate capacity to meet actual community demand • Provide clear public information on eligibility and access • Consider expanding services during peak kitten season A sustainable TNVR program is a critical component of any eƯective community cat strategy, especially under a managed intake model.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Camila
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

At the same time:

The shelter has adopted a managed intake policy for cats Many community members are reporting increasing numbers of kittens and unaltered cats this spring
Residents are actively seeking help for outdoor cats but have limited options When these conditions occur together — limited intake and no TNVR infrastructure — community cats are left without a clear pathway for care.

TNVR is widely recognized as the most eƯective and humane method to:

Reduce outdoor cat populations over time
Prevent repeated litters, especially during peak kitten season Reduce shelter intake and long-term costs
Support both animal welfare and community concerns
Without a functioning TNVR program, the current system places increasing pressure on:

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Faye Federica Casto
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Cody Macioce
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

In August 2025, a TNVR program was made available to residents, allowing up to four vouchers per person for feral/community cats. However, it appears that this program was discontinued quickly.

Currently, the only known spay/neuter assistance is the Lange Foundation Intervention Program. While this eƯort is appreciated and helpful, due to lack of funding as Lange is a non-profit rescue organization, a public funded TNVR program is urgently needed There is currently no accessible, structured TNVR program for community cats in Apple Valley.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Sherry Wu
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Davin Stager
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Shanshan Zhao
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Da Shu
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Guadalupe Guardado
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Karla Barela
To the Leadership of Apple Valley Animal Services, San Bernardino County Animal Care, and Community Leaders,
I am writing on behalf of concerned residents, rescuers, and animal welfare advocates with data proving that eliminating Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR/TNVR) programs devastates animal welfare and community management.

This issue is not about cats. It is about humane, evidence-based solutions to reduce shelter overcrowding, lower taxpayer costs, and prevent the endless cycle of reproduction that leads to more animals entering shelters. When community cats are sterilized, vaccinated, ear-tipped, and returned to their established territories, they can no longer contribute to population growth. Removing or euthanizing cats without addressing reproduction only creates a temporary vacancy that is quickly filled by new, unaltered cats.

San Bernardino County recognized the value of Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return and launched a county-supported program in 2024. The county funds free spay/neuter and vaccination for eligible cats because preventing births is more eƯective than continually processing animals through shelters.

County Animal Care materials further acknowledge that healthy community cats can thrive outdoors and that keeping cats out of shelters whenever possible reduces related expenses and overcrowding to focus resources on animals truly in need.

Every unsterilized female cat and her oƯspring can contribute to hundreds of descendants over time. The only sustainable way to reduce shelter intake is to prevent the births from occurring in the first place. Communities throughout California have increasingly adopted TNR/TNVR because it addresses the root cause of overpopulation rather than the symptom.

We respectfully ask Apple Valley Animal Services and local leaders to:
• support Trap-Neuter-Return programs for community cats • Partner with rescue organizations and volunteers to increase sterilization eƯorts • Invest in low-cost/free spay/neuter service
• Track and publicly report community cat outcomes and shelter intake statistics • Proritize prevention over euthanasia
The public expects humane, responsible, and fiscally sound solutions for their community and the cats that live there. Sterilization prevents future suƯering. Prevention reduces shelter crowding. Collaboration saves taxpayer dollars. Most importantly, it reflects the values of a compassionate community.

We urge you to strengthen—not weaken—the programs that address the root cause of cat overpopulation.

Sincerely,
Community Cat Foundation
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This will help tremendously and reduce population over time! Also limit deaths and diseases. They are working tirelessly to address the population issue. Yes it takes time. But will help. And it would need to continue.

Please make microchipping all pets as long as breeding and paperwork all to be mandatory to own a pet. Please help with funding on these things for low income people. Microchips must always be updated. If not there is a fine.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Amanda Rossi
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

At the same time:

TNVR is widely recognized as the most eƯective and humane method to:

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Jacquelyne Juarez
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

At the same time:

TNVR is widely recognized as the most eƯective and humane method to:

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Jamie Jacobs
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully
Dr Robin Parks DVM
Dr Patricia Clark DVM
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a concerned citizen to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

Currently, the only known spay/neuter assistance is the Lange Foundation Intervention Program. While this eƯort is appreciated and helpful, a public funded TNVR program is urgently needed.

There is currently no accessible, structured TNVR program for community cats in Apple Valley.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Tracy James
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Ping Wang
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Brooke Engebretson
Dear Major,
In August 2025, a TNVR program was made available to residents, allowing up to four vouchers per person for feral/community cats. However, it appears that this program was quickly no longer available.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
S. ShiƯlett
Dear Apple Valley Town Council,
I am writing to urge the Town of Apple Valley to establish a consistent, publicly funded TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This issue was raised in April, yet there has been no meaningful progress. At the same time, the August 2025 TNVR-style voucher program is no longer available, and there is still no town-supported TNVR program for community cats. Combined with managed intake policies that limit residents' ability to bring cats to the shelter, there is currently no clear pathway for helping community cats in Apple Valley.

As kitten season continues, residents are reporting kittens and unaltered outdoor cats throughout the community. Without accessible TNVR services, the cycle of reproduction continues, creating greater pressure on local rescues, caregivers, and the shelter system.

The lack of a consistent TNVR program has real consequences. Cats and kittens continue to enter the shelter system, and some are ultimately euthanized. Preventing unwanted litters through TNVR is far more humane and cost-eƯective than allowing populations to grow and then facing overcrowding and euthanasia as the result.

A publicly funded TNVR program is a practical and humane solution that helps reduce community cat populations over time, prevents future litters, and decreases strain on animal welfare resources. The current gap in services leaves both cats and residents without eƯective options.

I respectfully ask the Town to:
• Establish a consistent, publicly funded TNVR program for community cats • Ensure the program has suƯicient capacity to meet community needs • Provide clear public information regarding eligibility, scheduling, access, and voucher availability
• Create a reliable pathway for residents seeking help for community cats Thank you for your consideration and for addressing this important community issue.

Sincerely,
Ana Martin
My name is Melissa and I am 11 years old. I am writing to you today because I care a lot about the animals everywhere, and I am very worried about the overcrowding and high euthanasia rates in our city shelters.

Dogs and cats are part of our families, and it breaks my heart to know that so many are losing their lives just because the shelters run out of space. I want Apple Valley to be a place where every healthy and treatable pet gets a chance to find a loving home.

To stop this crisis, we need to solve the problem before animals ever end up in the shelter. I am asking you to please protect and increase funding for free and low-cost spay and neuter programs, including vouchers for families who cannot aƯord the surgeries. Spaying and neutering stops the extreme amount of litters from being born, which naturally reduces overcrowding and saves lives.

Strengthening our foster families
is another necessary action we must take. Spread the word about fostering and save many lives.

Another solution to this crisis is to engage in the Trap Neuter Return program which keeps shelters from overflowing with litters and unadoptable feral strays.

Investing in these prevention programs is much kinder, and it actually saves money compared to housing and euthanizing thousands of pets every year. Please make animal welfare a priority in the budget and help us build a community that doesn't rely on euthanasia.

Thank you for listening to my voice and for doing what is right for the animals.

Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record. Thank you for your time and consideration. Respectfully, Alison

Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to address a critical community issue that is actively worsening due to current town policies. I urgently request that the Town establish a permanent, publicly funded Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) program.

The current surge in outdoor cat populations this spring is a direct, predictable consequence of municipal policy decisions. The town has implemented a managed shelter intake policy, yet it has failed to provide the necessary TNVR infrastructure to oƯset it. By restricting shelter intake while simultaneously allowing the August 2025 voucher program to expire, the town has eƯectively eliminated all viable options for residents. Relying entirely on the private Lange Foundation is unsustainable.

The town’s current approach does not eliminate the problem; it simply shifts the burden onto residents and local rescues who lack the resources to handle it.

To reverse this escalating issue, the Town must implement a consistent, publicly supported TNVR program. Data proves TNVR is the only eƯective method to:
 Reduce Municipal Costs: Lowering shelter intake saves taxpayer dollars on longterm animal care and management.  Protect Public Health: Standard vaccination protocols within TNVR mitigate rabies and disease risks in our neighborhoods.
 Resolve Community Complaints: Sterilization eliminates nuisance behaviors like spraying, fighting, and howling.

The current policy framework is creating the very crisis residents are now struggling to manage. I respectfully urge the Town Council to take accountability for this infrastructure gap and establish a permanent TNVR program with adequate capacity.

Sincerely,
Magdalena Martinez
Hello Mr. Eisenbrey, the Apple Valley mayor and council, Mr. Rice, all taxpayers in Apple Valley

PLEASE BE ADVISED OF THE FOLLOWING
I have asked to be informed why your firm, Mr. Rice, has asked for a $300,000 pay increase for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, I have asked the records department for the letter from your firm explaining this, I have asked publicly on the town's facebook page and I have asked the oƯice of the town manager directly, I still have not received this information, despite being advised that I would have this information provided to me by the end of last week. Please provide all of the requested information. The town continues to subsidize entities that operate at a loss, one of which is the Singh Center, which has been subsidized with over two million in taxpayer dollars. To continue to subsidize entities that operate at a loss is clear waste which falls within CCP 526a. This code allows for a taxpayer to file an injunction to put a stop to this. I will not itemize all of the entities that fall into this category at this time, the purpose of this communication is to state that this option is available to us and will be used if you do not voluntarily stop throwing away our money, including paying for food for the town employees and council and mayor. CCP 526a is set forth below:
a) An action to obtain a judgment, restraining and preventing any illegal expenditure of, waste of, or injury to, the estate, funds, or other property of a local agency, may be maintained against any oƯicer thereof, or any agent, or other person, acting in its behalf, either by a resident therein, or by a corporation, who is assessed for and is liable to pay, or, within one year before the commencement of the action, has paid, a tax that funds the defendant local agency, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1) An income tax.
(2) A sales and use tax or transaction and use tax initially paid by a consumer to a retailer. (3) A property tax, including a property tax paid by a tenant or lessee to a landlord or lessor pursuant to the terms of a written lease.
(4) A business license tax.
(b) This section does not aƯect any right of action in favor of a local agency, or any public oƯicer; provided, that no injunction shall be granted restraining the oƯering for sale, sale, or issuance of any municipal bonds for public improvements or public utilities. (c) An action brought pursuant to this section to enjoin a public improvement project shall take special precedence over all civil matters on the calendar of the court except those matters to which equal precedence on the calendar is granted by law. (d) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) “Local agency” means a city, town, county, or city and county, or a district, public authority, or any other political subdivision in the state. (2) “Resident” means a person who lives, works, owns property, or attends school in the jurisdiction of the defendant local agency.

Furthermore, the shelter lawsuit demands that you comply with Hayden's Law. Because this is clear law, I believe the town will lose this case, in fact I am sure of it. Instead of improving the life of shelter animals, you are increasing the amount of pay to the law firm fighting this lawsuit, how can the town increase pay to a law firm which takes money away that could be used to resolve this lawsuit, it is indisputable that some of this money would go to fighting this suit, the town attorney has to act to benefit the town as an entity,this creates a significant issue in my mind. I am demanding that the town mitigate s damages in this case by STOPPING the wasteful spending immediately and take the money that you are throwing away on the Singh Center and otherwise, all of which will be itemized if action is taken under CCP 526a, and start addressing issues of concern to the public, the top of my list is the massive local pet overpopulation. You are required by law to mitigate damages. I have a proposed plan for addressing this problem to reduce the number of unwanted pets that end up being euthanized. If you continue to throw away money instead of mitigating damages we will use every legal remedy to put a stop to this. I am contacting public interest law firms at this point. People have begged for years for you to hold a town funded spay and neuter clinic which would directly mitigate damages by reducing the numbers of animals needing veterinary care, needing homes, and suƯering. Public education on this issue is sorely needed and must be implemented. You have dismissed and ignored anyone that has come forward on this issue, which has resulted in this lawsuit, as a taxpayer and concerned citizen, I am telling you, do not ignore this request, thank you, Deirdre O'Donovan
Public Comment: Vote YES for the Sale of AVAS to San Bernardino County Dear Mayor and Apple Valley Town Council Members,
I am writing to strongly urge you to vote YES on the proposed sale of the Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS) to San Bernardino County at the upcoming Town Council meeting.

The data speaks for itself — AVAS is failing.

In 2023, the cat live release rate was just 7%.

In 2024, despite the dedicated eƯorts of community members and networkers, the rate had barely risen to around 21%, still among the lowest in the country.

Most cats at AVAS are kept in the back and mislabeled as "feral," even when they are adoptable. Many are euthanized without any public exposure or rescue eƯort.

For example, in April 2025 alone, over 100 cats were euthanized, yet only 5 of them were ever listed online for public view.

Despite repeated public outcry and documented concerns from community members, transparency and accountability remain absent. There is no full-time veterinarian, no licensed behaviorist, and no low-cost spay/neuter services in a town where the average annual income is under $25,000.

Even promising eƯorts have been abandoned — such as the pilot TNVR program, launched briefly in Q2 2025 but paused on June 30 and never resumed, leaving community members and cats in limbo once again.

The County of San Bernardino oƯers hope.

Unlike AVAS, County-run shelters vaccinate all animals on intake, post all intakes online the same day, and work with over 400 rescue partners. They have multiple licensed veterinarians on staƯ, allowing volunteers to photograph animals to increase their adoption chances. Maintain a cat live release rate of over 75%, even in 2023 under an open admission policy, a stark contrast to AVAS's dismal record.

County supervisors and Animal care team actively listens to the community, and continues to improve policies. In recent months, they’ve implemented impactful programs such as the TNVR program for community cats (which is expected to keep expanding), and the foster program which would save many under aged kittens.In contrast, AVAS continues to conceal animals from the public and operate in crisis mode. This is not just a staƯing issue — it is a systemic failure.

Transferring AVAS to the County is not just a change of management — it’s a chance at life for thousands of animals.

Opponents of this sale claim the shelter is “trying its best.” But “trying” is not enough when lives are at stake. The truth is: for 15+ years, AVAS has operated in a broken loop — hide the cats, label them unadoptable, euthanize quietly. The Town has failed to enact basic reforms, even when publicly funded to do so. The result is one of the highest cat euthanasia rates in California, fueled by poor visibility, poor policy, and a pattern of indiƯerence.

Enough is enough.

This is your opportunity to end the cycle of secrecy and suƯering. With this vote, you can replace dysfunction with transparency, cruelty with care, and hopelessness with a future.

This sale is not about politics or pride — it is about life and death. The animals at AVAS can’t aƯord to wait any longer.

Please vote YES to finalize the transfer of AVAS to San Bernardino County. Let this be the turning point — where we choose compassion, transparency, and progress.

Thank you,
Jeniel Russell
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Jill Rizzo
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Michael Eagan
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

SOPHIE CAHEN VORBURGER
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record. Please help keep the population down.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Elisa Palacios
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

At the same time:

TNVR is widely recognized as the most eƯective and humane method to:

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record. Please help keep the population down.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jessica Barocio
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Alena
Dear Mayor and Town Council Members,
I am writing as a community member to respectfully request that the Town of Apple Valley establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

This comment is submitted to ensure that the need for TNVR is clearly documented as part of the public record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,
Julianna Arrant
궼궾궽 Publicly funded TNVR program still needed in Apple Valley In April, we asked the Town of Apple Valley to establish a consistent, publicly supported TNVR (Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) program for community cats.

As of today, there still appears to be no progress.
긯기 Managed intake + no TNVR = no real pathway for community cats. 껵껶껴 WHAT WE ARE SEEING
• The previous TNVR voucher program from August 2025 lasted for only a few months and no longer available
• There is still no public, town-supported TNVR program for community cats • Managed intake limits the ability for residents to bring cats into the shelter • The privately funded spay/neuter assistance currently available is appreciated, but it a publicly funded TNVR program is urgently needed to meet community demand • Residents continue to report increasing numbers of kittens and unaltered outdoor cats during kitten season
 WHY THIS MATTERS
• Community cats are left without a clear pathway to care • Outdoor cats continue to reproduce when TNVR is not available • Kitten season increases suƯering, shelter pressure, and community frustration • Residents, rescues, and volunteers are left trying to fill the gap without adequate resources 跦跪跧跫跨跬跭跮路跩 Without intake AND without TNVR, community cats have no real pathway to help. 궸궹궺궻 WE REQUEST ACTION
• Establish a consistent, publicly funded TNVR program for community cats • Provide enough capacity to meet actual community needs • Expand services during peak kitten season
• Provide clear public information on eligibility, access, scheduling, and voucher availability • Treat TNVR as a necessary part of Apple Valley’s managed intake strategy 跦跪跧跫跨跬跭跮路跩 SPEAK UP FOR THE CATS
Your voice creates a public record. Even a short comment matters.

Please email the Town Council and ask Apple Valley to fund a sustainable TNVR program for community cats.
굽굾굿궀 Public comment template:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YNpntkzvIaLnIspJOHSMlqKVY0YzM7GDaXjBNBQD 8-0/edit?usp=sharing
까깍깋깎깏깐 Email us if you’d like a template sent to you:
[email protected]
곉곊곋Voluntarily bring exposure to AVAS cats. Not aƯiliated with the shelter Heather Caulfield
Town Council Members,
So sad what has been happening at AVAS. A grand jury took the time to study and issue recommendations to improve outcomes for the animals at AVAS, and the town council and shelter refused to adopt many of those recommendations.

AVAS is being sued because they are allegedly not following Hayden’s law, which is state law already in place. Kittens are dying in the shelter’s care, both from euthanasia and also from things like strangulation on parts of the cages.

Cats are routinely labeled as feral, this label excludes them from being adopted, yet when rescue organizations are able to rescue these “feral” cats, they take videos the same day or week of cats purring, being held, and rubbing up against their rescuers.

The behaviorist doesn’t know enough about feline behavior to be making life or death decisions for thousands of cats each year. She has taken one class about cats. That's it. This might explain why cats (and kittens) labeled as feral by the shelter turn out to be purry aƯectionate lovebugs when they interact with their rescuers soon after being rescued. There are many videos of these interactions now.

Also, it is in the shelter, and cats don’t respond well to noise, they get stressed and scared, especially by the sound of barking dogs which is almost constant at AVAS. And when cats are scared they don’t purr or cuddle up, they cower, and try to hide and avoid human contact.

They may even hiss when they are scared. A scared cat in a shelter can act very diƯerently once in a quieter environment. As we have seen from videos and in person encounters with the "feral" (actually just scared) cats of Apple Valley. Unfortunately many mislabeled cats (and kittens) don't make it out, thousands have been euthanized over the years.

All of this and now a $400,000 proposed reduction in funding for the town run animal shelter. And the TNVR voucher program is no longer oƯered through AVAS.

Please do better. AVAS and the way it is run is a stain on Apple Valley.

Pat Roberts
Hi,
Expressing my support for public TNR of cats. I’m currently fostering 11 who were pulled from the Apple Valley shelter. The situation is out of control and animals are suƯering needlessly.

Thank you,
Adrian Slovick

Apple Valley City CouncilJune 9, 2026

Apple Valley City Council
June 9, 2026