Santa Fe is set to address the issue of pets on medians with a proposed ordinance that would ban animals from these areas and impose fines of up to $500. The ordinance, sponsored by Councilor Signe Lindell, is scheduled for public comment on October 29 and a final vote on December 10. While the intention behind the proposal is to enhance traffic safety and protect animals, critics argue that the approach may exacerbate existing social issues rather than resolve them.
The presence of panhandlers on medians has become a familiar sight for drivers in Santa Fe. A previous ordinance, effective February 1, already prohibits individuals from lingering on medians narrower than 3 feet. The proposed ban on animals is being framed similarly, under the guise of public safety. Yet, evidence supporting claims that pets on medians pose a danger is lacking. According to Councilor Jamie Cassutt, “We haven’t had anything bad happen yet, but it is something to prevent.”
Councilor Lindell emphasizes her desire to remove animals from medians, stating, “If it’s a situation you wouldn’t want to put a child in, I don’t think it’s a situation you should put a dog in.” This perspective, however, raises concerns among advocates for the homeless community. Critics assert that the ordinance effectively aims to hide visible homelessness rather than address its root causes. Those living on the streets will still be present, but the city’s efforts may merely shift their visibility.
The proposed ordinance goes beyond simply banning animals from medians. It includes provisions that would define “animal abandonment” and increase the fine for this offense to $500 from $200. Additionally, it would impose fines for leaving animals unattended, starting at $200 for a first offense and escalating for repeat violations. Such financial penalties may be unmanageable for individuals who rely on panhandling for their income, raising questions about the practicality of enforcing these fines.
Advocates argue that the city’s resources could be better utilized addressing more pressing issues. With police officers already stretched thin, focusing on fines for panhandling or pet-related offenses may divert attention from serious crimes, including burglaries and violent offenses. The reality is that individuals facing homelessness often have deep emotional bonds with their pets, and punitive measures could lead to further hardship.
Karen Cain, director of the Street Homeless Animal Project, acknowledges the need to report and address animal neglect. However, she cautions against conflating homelessness with animal abuse: “Being out on the street does not constitute neglect or abuse.”
Instead of punitive measures, advocates propose a more holistic approach to address both pet welfare and homelessness. They suggest the establishment of centers that provide services to assist homeless individuals and their pets, facilitating access to housing and resources. As winter approaches, the immediate need for safe, warm places for both people and their pets becomes increasingly urgent.
Santa Fe faces a complex challenge. The proposed ordinance may aim to improve public safety and animal welfare, but its implications for the homeless community signal the need for a more comprehensive strategy that addresses the underlying issues of poverty and housing insecurity. The conversation around this ordinance is likely to continue as the city grapples with balancing community safety and compassion for its most vulnerable residents.
