Dear Township of Langley mayor and council members,
I am writing to express my profound disappointment that Township of Langley council is proposing banning assistance to animals who are found outside the circle of Township communities, specifically, from within the City of Langley.
The animals certainly do not recognize the “border” between the Township and the City, and neither should the taxpayers. An animal in need is an animal in need.
As a concerned resident and long-time volunteer at Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS), I feel compelled to voice my objections and share my thoughts on this matter.
Domestic animals are an integral part of our daily lives. They bring joy, companionship, and a sense of connection that is invaluable to human beings.
It is our collective responsibility to ensure their well-being and to promote humane treatment for all living beings. The proposal to withhold support for lost, injured or at-large animals just because they are in the City of Langley is, therefore, deeply troubling.
There are many vulnerable animals in both communities that rely on our compassion and intervention. From abandoned pets to injured animals, these creatures face numerous challenges that require our attention and care. By choosing not to assist, we are neglecting our duty to protect and nurture the most defenceless among us.
Furthermore, supporting animal welfare has broader social benefits. It fosters a sense of community, teaches empathy, and encourages responsible stewardship of the environment. Programs that aid animals often involve volunteers and local organizations, creating opportunities for civic engagement and education. Persons experiencing housing insecurities often have animals as their companion and connection to the world.
Denying support to these initiatives not only harms the animals but also harms humans and diminishes these valuable community-building efforts.
For more than 20 years, the Township and the City of Langley, have received excellent animal welfare services through LAPS. A recent move by Council has seen the transfer of the Manager of Animal Control from LAPS to the Bylaw department in the Township. The Animal Control Officers will no doubt be next to be moved. With this move, the Township Council is proceeding with denying care to any animals from the City of Langley.
I recognize that this Council has identified areas where they feel the City is not paying its “fair share” (eg. RCMP). However, in the situation with animal care, the City of Langley pays more than $100,000 per year to LAPS. A review of animal intake has revealed that only about four per cent of the animals cared for by LAPS over a two-year period, have come from within City boundaries.
It is very likely that the City of Langley is paying more to LAPS, than animals from within its boundaries are costing.
I do recognize that with the removal of Animal Control Officers from LAPS, any cost for animal control duties for animals within the City, would be borne by the Township. I believe a fee for service arrangement would be in the best interests of the animals, and their people.
I urge you to not continue down the path of preventing care to animals found within the City boundaries. It is not too late to make a difference, and to demonstrate that our municipality values compassion and responsibility.
Cathy Cook, Langley Township
CC
City of Langley mayor and council
Sarah Jones, executive director, LAPS
Aldergrove Star
Langley Advance Times
