[PAGE 1]
CITY OF ALPINE
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
April 14, 2026 – 5:30 PM
City Council Chambers, 803 W. Holland Avenue, Alpine, Texas 79830
1. C ALL TO ORDER.
2. D ETERMINATION OF QUORUM
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS.
Each person in attendance who desires to speak to the Board on an item on the agenda shall speak
during this section. Public comments may be made regarding agenda items only. Attendees must be
physically present in order to address the Board. Comments by proxy are not allowed. Public
Comments are limited to 3 minutes per person. Unused time may not be yielded to other attendees.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
At this time, the Chair will invite members of the public to address each item listed in this section.
Comments made during this section are limited to the topic of each public hearing. Attendees must
be physically present in order to address the Board. Comments by proxy are not allowed. Public
Comments are limited to 3 minutes per person. Unused time may not be yielded to other attendees.
If more than one public hearing is being held, each person will be allowed to speak during each
topic.
5. A PPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING
A. January 13, 2026 Meeting Minutes. (G. Calderon, City Secretary)
6. D ISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Presentation and discussion regarding the Big Bend Pets 2025 Community Cat Program
results, including program outcomes, fiscal impact, and cost savings associated with Trap-
Neuter-Return (TNR) and Return-to-Field (RTF) strategies. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
B. Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-58
(Animal protection) and Section 10-59 (Animals in vehicles), including provisions related to
animals left unattended in vehicles, humane transport requirements, and enforcement
authority. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
C. Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-85
(Application for permit for livestock and fowl), including application requirements, site
documentation, and sanitation standards. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
D. Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-93
(Permit required for exotic animals), including permitting authority, public safety
considerations, and coordination with state regulatory requirements. (J. Stewart, Animal
Services)
E. Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-117
(Running at large prohibited), including enforcement procedures, identification requirements,
and animal services protocols for impoundment and owner notification. (J. Stewart, Animal
Services)
1
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[PAGE 2]
Animal Advisory Board Meeting Agenda April 14, 2026
F. Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-119
(Redemption of impounded animals), including redemption timelines, adoption requirements,
spay/neuter provisions, and shelter operations. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
G. Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-221
(Permits for kennels, breeders, and animal-related businesses), including permitting thresholds,
inspection requirements, public hearing procedures, and operational standards. (J. Stewart,
Animal Services)
7. ACTION ITEMS.
Action items are to be accompanied by a brief statement of facts, including where funds are coming
from, if applicable. (Action items limited to 10 per meeting).
A. Approve a recommendation to the City Council to implement Ordinance 2026-06-01, an
Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Alpine, Texas, Amending Chapter 10 – Animals
of the Alpine Code of Ordinances; Amending Section 10-1 – Definitions to Include Terms
Describing Human-Wildlife Interactions; Amending Section 10-10 – Human-Wildlife
Interactions; Repealing Section 10-11 – Hunting; Establishing Regulations Concerning
Human-Wildlife Interactions; Providing for the Establishment of up to a $500 Penalty per
Occurrence for Violations of the Ordinance; and Providing for the Following: Findings of
Fact, Enactment, Repealer, Penalty, Savings, Severability, Proper Notice and Meeting, and
Effective Date Clauses. (J. Etchison, Chair)
8. B OARD MEMBER COMMENTS
9. A DJOURN.
CERTIFICATION
I, Geoffrey R. Calderon, do hereby certify that this notice was posted at City Hall, in a convenient and
readily accessible place to the general public, and on the City website at www.cityofalpine.com/agenda
pursuant to Section 551.043, Texas Government Code. The said notice was posted by 2 P.M. on April 8,
2026, and remained so posted for at least 3 business days preceding the scheduled time of the said
meeting.
WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL
this 8 day of April, 2026.
2
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[PAGE 3]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 5A
Department: Administration
Sponsor: Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: Approve
AGENDA ITEM
January 13, 2026 Meeting Minutes. (G. Calderon, City Secretary)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. 1-13-26 Animal Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
Page 3 of 43

[PAGE 4]
City Of Alpine
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 – 6:00 PM
Minutes
1. C ALL TO ORDER.
James Etchison, Chair of the Board, called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
2. D ETERMINATION OF QUORUM
Board Members Present: City Staff and Stakeholders Present:
Place 1, Judy Stokes Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
Place 2 Nancy Burton
Place 3 Pat McCall
Place 4 Lauren Spear
Place 5, Vice-Chair James Etchison
Place 6 Dr. Mary Dodson
Place 7 Mary Ann Vega
Animal Services Supervisor, Jennifer Stewart
Councilor Eva Martinez
N ot Present: None O thers Present: No other attendees
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS.
Each person in attendance who desires to speak to the Board on an item on the agenda shall speak
during this section. Public comments may be made regarding agenda items only. Attendees must be
physically present in order to address the Board. Comments by proxy are not allowed. Public
Comments are limited to 3 minutes per person. Unused time may not be yielded to other attendees.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
At this time, the Chair will invite members of the public to address each item listed in this section.
Comments made during this section are limited to the topic of each public hearing. Attendees must
be physically present in order to address the Board. Comments by proxy are not allowed. Public
Comments are limited to 3 minutes per person. Unused time may not be yielded to other attendees.
If more than one public hearing is being held, each person will be allowed to speak during each
topic.
5. A PPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING
A. Approval of February 11, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes (G. Calderon, Interim City Manager)
B. Approval of April 8, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes (G. Calderon, Interim City Manager)
On a motion by Judy Stoke and seconded by Mary Ann Vega to approve, the board unanimously
adopted the motion.
6. D ISCUSSION ITEMS
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[PAGE 5]
A. Discussion and possible direction regarding a proposed ordinance regulating human–wildlife
interactions within the City of Alpine, prompted by an increase in reported encounters involving
wildlife such as bears, mountain lions, javelina, and bobcats. The discussion will include a
review of a draft ordinance addressing feeding, harassment, possession, waste management,
enforcement mechanisms, penalties, exceptions under state and federal law, and public
education efforts, as well as coordination with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Brewster
County Emergency Management, and local first responders. (J. Etchison, Chair)
7. ACTION ITEMS.
Action items are to be accompanied by a brief statement of facts, including where funds are coming
from, if applicable. (Action items limited to 10 per meeting).
8. B OARD MEMBER COMMENTS
9. A DJOURN.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. (6:24 P.M.)
APPROVED: ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
O fficer of the Board Geoffrey R. Calderon, TRMC
City Secretary & Chief Governance Officer
CERTIFICATION
I, Geoffrey R. Calderon, do hereby certify that this notice was posted at City Hall, in a convenient and
readily accessible place to the general public, and on the City website at www.cityofalpine.com/agenda
pursuant to Section 551.043, Texas Government Code. The said notice was posted by 5 P.M. on January
7, 2026, and remained so posted for at least 3 business days preceding the scheduled time of the said
meeting.
WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL
this 7 day of January 2026.
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[PAGE 6]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6A
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Presentation and discussion regarding the Big Bend Pets 2025 Community Cat Program results,
including program outcomes, fiscal impact, and cost savings associated with Trap-Neuter-Return
(TNR) and Return-to-Field (RTF) strategies. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Big Bend Pets 2025 Report
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
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[PAGE 7]
Big Bend Pets
2025 Community Cat Program Results
Report to City Council
In 2025, the community cat program processed 112 cats through humane trapping and steriliza�on. The
results demonstrate a cost-effec�ve, non-lethal strategy that reduces shelter intake, lowers long-term
municipal expenditures, and stabilizes free-roaming cat popula�ons.
Program Outcomes
• 88 cats (78.6%) were sterilized and returned to their colonies, preven�ng future liters and
reducing ongoing calls for service related to nuisance behaviors.
• 15 cats (13.4%) were managed through Return to Field (RTF), a proven shelter-diversion
strategy.
RTF routes community cats directly to spay/neuter and vaccina�on instead of shelter
o
intake.
This approach avoids the high costs of processing, housing, feeding, daily care, and
o
poten�al euthanasia.
Cats are returned to their neighborhoods under the care of established colony
o
caretakers, improving public health outcomes and accountability.
Overall, 92% of cats were returned to their environment through TNR or RTF, significantly reducing the
number of animals requiring costly shelter resources.
Addi�onal Outcomes
• 3 cats were placed as acclimated barn cats, avoiding shelter costs while providing working-cat
solu�ons.
• 1 cat was rehomed.
• 2 cats were transferred to shelter partners for appropriate care.
• 1 cat (0.9%) resulted in deceased status, reflec�ng strong veterinary protocols and a high
standard of care.
1
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[PAGE 8]
Summary of Results
Outcome Count Outcome Count
Released (TNR) 88 Transport 2
Return to Field (RTF) 15 Rehomed 1
Barn Cat Placement 3 Deceased 1
Shelter Transfer 2 Total 112
Fiscal Impact and Cost Savings
• Reduced shelter intake: Every cat diverted through TNR or RTF eliminates intake, housing, and
daily care costs that can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per animal. (See last
page)
• Lower euthanasia-related expenses: Non-lethal management avoids medical, staffing, and
disposal costs associated with euthanasia along with the emo�onal impact on employees.
• Decreased repeat calls for service: Sterilized cats exhibit fewer nuisance behaviors, reducing
ongoing animal control and code enforcement demands.
• Long-term popula�on control: Each sterilized cat prevents dozens of future births, avoiding
exponen�al cost growth �ed to unmanaged popula�ons.
• Efficient use of partnerships: Veterinary and community partnerships leverage resources
without requiring major capital investment from the city.
Why This Maters to the City
• Humane and fiscally responsible: Aligns animal welfare with responsible public spending.
• Scalable without new facili�es: Expansion can occur through increased trapping and
partnerships rather than costly shelter expansion.
• Community-supported: Residents benefit from stable, managed colonies and reduced
neighborhood conflicts.
Conclusion: The 2025 results confirm that the community cat program is effec�ve,
humane, and cost-efficient. By emphasizing TNR and RTF, the city reduces shelter
overcrowding, limits long-term expenditures, and achieves sustainable popula�on
control. Con�nued support and strategic expansion will further amplify these fiscal
and community benefits.
2
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[PAGE 9]
Estimated Cost Savings Per Cat
Municipal sheltering and animal control costs vary, but industry-standard es�mates show significant
savings when cats are managed through TNR and Return to Field (RTF) rather than tradi�onal shelter
intake.
Average Municipal Costs (Per Cat)
Estimated
Service Type
Cost
Tradi�onal shelter intake (field response, intake processing, housing, daily care,
$300–$600
staffing)
Extended shelter stay or euthanasia pathway $700–$1,200+
TNR or RTF (spay/neuter, vaccina�on, return) $135–$150
Estimated Net Savings
• Savings per cat diverted through TNR or RTF:
$225–$1,000 per cat
• Savings increase over �me as sterilized cats prevent future liters and repeat intakes.
2025 Program Impact (Estimated)
• 103 cats returned to the community through TNR or RTF
• Es�mated direct municipal savings:
$23,000–$103,000 in 2025 alone
• Addi�onal long-term savings preven�ng hundreds of future kitens that would
otherwise require city services.
Why This Matters
• TNR and RTF cost a fraction of shelter-based management
• Each sterilized cat eliminates recurring expenses tied to:
Repeated calls for service
o
Shelter intake and housing
o
Kitten care and medical treatment
o
• These programs provide population control without ongoing budget growth
Key Takeaway for Council
TNR and RTF are not only humane—they are the most cost-effective option available for
managing community cats.
Every cat successfully diverted from shelter intake represents immediate savings
and long-term budget protection.
3
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[PAGE 10]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6B
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-58 (Animal
protection) and Section 10-59 (Animals in vehicles), including provisions related to animals left
unattended in vehicles, humane transport requirements, and enforcement authority. (J. Stewart,
Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 10-58 and 59 Revisions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
Page 10 of 43

[PAGE 11]
Sec. 10-58. Animal protection.
A person commits an offense if he intentionally, knowingly, recklessly or with
criminal negligence leaves an animal unattended in any standing or parked vehicle in
such a way as to endanger the animal's physical health, safety or immediate welfare.
In the event that a person is found guilty of this offense, the municipal court shall, in
addition to any fine and court costs assessed, assess any and all fees and expenses
incurred pursuant to the provisions set out is this chapter.
In the event that an animal is left unattended in any standing or parked vehicle in such
a way as to endanger the animal's physical health, safety or immediate welfare, an
animal control officer or police officer shall make a reasonable attempt to locate the
owner or person in control of the vehicle. In the event that the owner of the vehicle
cannot be located after reasonable attempt, an animal control officer or police officer
is authorized to use reasonable force and measures to remove the animal from the
vehicle to secure the animal's physical health and safety. An animal removed from a
vehicle under these circumstances shall be taken to the city animal shelter, or to a
veterinarian if the animal is determined to be in physical distress, and a written notice
shall be attached to the vehicle by the animal control officer or police officer advising
that of the telephone number and address of the location from which the animal may
be claimed. The city shall have no responsibility for any damage sustained to a
vehicle in the course of securing the safety of an animal under this section.
Sec. 10-59. Animals in vehicles.
(a) A person commits an offense if he they intentionally, knowingly, recklessly or
with criminal negligence transports an animal in a motor vehicle, trailer or other
conveyance in a cruel, inhumane or unsafe manner or fails to effectively and
humanely restrain the animal so as to prevent the animal from jumping from or being
thrown from the vehicle, trailer or other conveyance during its normal operation.
(b) No person having charge or custody of an animal shall place or confine an animal
or allow an animal to be placed or confined or to remain in a motor vehicle or trailer
under such conditions or for such period of time as may endanger the health or well-
being of such animal A person commits an offense if they intentionally, knowingly,
recklessly or with criminal negligence leaves an animal unattended in any standing or
parked vehicle, trailer or other conveyance in such a way as to endanger the animal's
physical health, safety or immediate welfare due to heat, lack of food or water, or
other such circumstances as may be reasonably expected to cause suffering, disability
or death of such animal.
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[PAGE 12]
(1) In the event that an animal is left unattended in any standing or parked vehicle in
such a way as to endanger the animal's physical health, safety or immediate welfare,
an animal services officer or police officer shall make a reasonable attempt to locate
the owner or person in control of the vehicle. In the event that the owner of the vehicle
cannot be located after reasonable attempt, an animal services officer or police officer
is authorized to use reasonable force and measures to remove the animal from the
vehicle to secure the animal's physical health and safety. An animal removed from a
vehicle under these circumstances shall be taken to the Alpine Animal Services
Shelter or to a veterinarian if the animal is determined to be in physical distress, and a
written notice shall be attached to the vehicle by the animal services officer or police
officer advising the telephone number and address of the location from which the
animal may be claimed. The city shall have no responsibility for any damage
sustained to a vehicle in the course of securing the safety of an animal under this
section.
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[PAGE 13]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6C
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-85
(Application for permit for livestock and fowl), including application requirements, site
documentation, and sanitation standards. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 10-85 Revisions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
Page 13 of 43

[PAGE 14]
Sec. 10-85. Application for permit (excluding cats, dogs and household pets).
Application for a permit to keep any large or small livestock animals or fowl shall be
made submitted to the city animal services, in writing, upon forms provided for that
purpose by the animal control services officer or city manager for the city. Such
application shall contain the following information in addition to such other
information as the animal control services officer or city manager may desire:
(1) Name and residence of the applicant;
(2) Location of premises where large or small livestock animals or fowl are to be kept;
(3) Species of large or small livestock animals or fowl to be kept;
(4) Number of large or small livestock animals or fowl to be kept;
(5) Statement of method in which all manure and waste material accumulating from
such large or small livestock animals or fowl will be sanitarily disposed of;
(6) For large livestock an attached diagram or plat of the premises, showing
dimensions of the premises, the location and dimensions of the enclosure, corral, pen
or shelter, and the distance from residence buildings and property lot line, either on
the same lot or on adjacent property.
(7) Pictures of the property, enclosure, shelter and the place where feed will be stored
if location is outside of the residence.
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[PAGE 15]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6D
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-93 (Permit
required for exotic animals), including permitting authority, public safety considerations, and
coordination with state regulatory requirements. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 10-93 Revisions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
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[PAGE 16]
Sec. 10-93. Permit required for exotic animals.
No person shall keep within the city any wild or exotic species of animal or bird,
warm or cold blooded, unless a permit is obtained from the animal control officer. A
special permit may be obtained if all conditions, regulations and rules are met by
applicant as determined by the animal control officer. No permit shall be issued a
special permit if there is any concern about the health and safety of the community of
its citizens by granting such permit. A permit, if granted, is valid for one year from the
date of issuance and must be renewed annually. If granted, such permit may be
revoked at any time as deemed necessary as determined by any animal control officer.
Texas Parks and Wildlife who overseas the state of Texas exotic animal permit
system. If a valid exotic or wildlife permit cannot be produced at the time the animal
is reported to animal services or other respective agency, animal services or any other
qualified entity may remove the animal immediately from its location. Definition for
exotic animal can be found in the Section 10-1 of this chapter.
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[PAGE 17]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6E
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-117
(Running at large prohibited), including enforcement procedures, identification requirements, and
animal services protocols for impoundment and owner notification. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 10-117 Revisions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
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[PAGE 18]
Sec. 10-117. Running at large prohibited.
No person keeping or harboring any animal or fowl shall permit such animal or fowl,
except pigeons, to go loose or run at large in any of the public ways of the city or
upon the property of another, including their own unfenced property. exceptions are
when the animal or fowl is in an enclosures, invisible fence or by any other means of
confinement restricting the animal from leaving on the private property owned or
leased by the person keeping or harboring such animal or fowl. Any unidentifiable or
unidentified animal not wearing a collar displaying a rabies vaccination tag, a city
license, a name tag, not microchipped or is not an ear notched or microchipped cat
indicating that it has been processed through the trap-neuter-return program will be
considered stray, lost or feral, and shall be subject to animal control services.
Animal services will make an attempt to locate the owner of said animal or fowl
before bringing it to the shelter. Animal services is required to photograph any animal
or fowl found running at large and post it as found on social media in an attempt to
reunite the animal with its owner. Animal services is required to leave a notice at a
property stating an animal had been picked up near their property if they believe an
animal belongs at said residence but the resident is not reachable and the animal
cannot be safely confined at the residence by an animal services officer. Animal
services is permitted to enter a gated property for the purpose of making contact with
a potential owner to reunite a lost pet.
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[PAGE 19]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6F
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-119
(Redemption of impounded animals), including redemption timelines, adoption requirements,
spay/neuter provisions, and shelter operations. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 10-119 Revisions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
Page 19 of 43

[PAGE 20]
Sec. 10-119. Redemption of impounded animals.
(a) The owner shall be entitled to resume possession of any impounded animal upon
payment of the impoundment and daily board fees, medical fees, and microchip fees
(if applicable) and compliance with vaccination-registration requirements; provided
application for such possession, with payment of all required fees in accordance with
Appendix C: Animal Services Fees, is made within 72 hours after impoundment, or
within such time after impoundment as may be agreed to by the animal control officer
and such owner, if such agreement is made within such 72-hour period and such
additional time does not exceed ten days total impoundment time. If an owner comes
forward after the stray hold period is up and the animal has been adopted or
transferred to another rescue the owner is not entitled to that animal and the adoption
or transfer will stand.
(b) Adoption, spaying and neutering:
(1) Whenever an unlicensed dog or cat is adopted, such owner shall be required to pay
a rabies vaccination fee to the animal control officer. The animal control officer shall
thereupon issue a receipt for such fee, and the holder thereof may have such animal
vaccinated for rabies by any veterinarian licensed to practice veterinary medicine in
the state who has agreed to administer such rabies vaccination receipts. Any rabies
vaccination shall be obtained by the owner or purchaser of such dog or cat within
seven days after obtaining custody of such dog or cat. The animal control officer shall
maintain and make available to any owner or purchaser of any dog or cat a list of
veterinarians honoring such receipts. In addition, the owner or purchaser of any dog or
cat shall be required to obtain a license tag for such dog or cat at the time of such sale
or redemption
(2) The adopting person shall comply with all the adoption conditions and surgery
conditions for the adopted animal as set forth in the contract.
(3) Should the adopted animal be lost or die before the adoption and surgery
conditions as set forth in the contract have been complied with, such loss or death
shall be reported in person or by mail to the animal control shelter not later than seven
days after its occurrence.
(4) All animals adopted from the shelter are required to be spayed or neutered.
(5) The adopter shall forfeit the surgery deposit in the event that such surgery deposit
has not been redeemed within 30 days after the date the surgery was due to be
performed.
Page 20 of 43

[PAGE 21]
(6) The forfeiture of such surgery deposit shall in no way release the adopter from the
obligation of having the required surgery performed.
(7) The provisions of this section shall only apply to dogs and cats of the age of four
months or more, excluding the provisions for spaying/neutering which are set out in
subsection (c)(4) of this section.
(cb) The owner shall not be entitled to possession of any animal held under quarantine
or observation for rabies until a written release is obtained by the observing
veterinarian or local rabies control authority and until all fees have been paid. The
payment of such fees may be deferred until the animal is eligible for release.
(d c) Any dog or cat animal impounded and not reclaimed by the owner within five
days the stray or at the end of the quarantine hold periods outlined in this chapter may
be humanely destroyed euthanized if deemed unadoptable or medically necessary. If
the animal control services officer determines that any unclaimed dog or cat animal is
reasonably healthy, currently vaccinated against rabies, spayed or neutered and should
not constitute a threat to public or animal health of the community, the animal control
services officer shelter may offer such dog or cat animal for adoption or transfer to
another recue organization. If not adopted, the animal shall be humanely destroyed.
(d) Adoption, spaying and neutering:
(1) All cats and dogs adopted from the Alpine Animal Services Shelter will be rabies
vaccinated prior to adoption or will be sent home with a receipt stating that the rabies
vaccine will be paid for by Alpine Animal Services which is included in the adoption
fee paid by the adopter. The fee will be covered by Animal Services for 1 month from
the adoption date, after said date, the new owner will be liable for the full cost of the
vaccination.
(2) The adopter shall comply with all of the adoption requirements and any follow up
medical needs the adopted animal may require as set forth in the adoption contract.
(3) Should the adopted animal be lost or die during a trial adoption period, such loss
or death shall be reported in person or by phone to the animal services shelter
immediately after its occurrence.
(4) All cats and dogs adopted from the shelter are required to be spayed or neutered.
Exemption would be if it is deemed medically unsafe, by a licensed veterinarian or the
animal services supervisor.
(5) The provisions of this sub section shall only apply to dogs and cats.
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[PAGE 22]
(e) The animal control officer shall approve all applications for adoption of unclaimed
animals. Adopted animals must comply with all registration and vaccination
provisions of this chapter. If any impounded animal, other than a dog or cat large
livestock animal, is not claimed by the owner within seven days the stray hold periods
outlined in this chapter, the animal shall be held for such time as the animal control
officer deems reasonable, considering the animal's probable value, condition of health
and suitability for use. Upon expiration of such reasonable time, the animal control
officer may offer the animal, if suitable, to be sold by posting the date of sale, the
animal's description and sale location for five full days on the city hall bulletin board,
on the courthouse door and on one other public place in the city. Animals not suitable
for sale will be humanely destroyed.
(g) All small livestock, birds, rodents, snakes, or any other animal not considered
large livestock, cat or dog, may be placed up for adoption and do not need to meet the
requirements of section 10-119 (d)
(f) Animal Services has the right to deny an adoption application or sale of livestock
within reason and to protect the health and wellbeing of the animal.
(g) There will be no holds on adoptable animals unless they are waiting for a spay or
neuter appointment, in that case, multiple applications may be accepted. When the
animal becomes available for adoption animal services will contact the adopters in
order the applications were accepted and the adopter will have 24 hours to pick up
their new pet or the next applicant will be contacted. Exceptions would be that the
staff believe another applicant would be a better fit or the person does not live in
Alpine and needs time to travel to receive the animal.
Page 22 of 43

[PAGE 23]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 6G
Department: Animal Services
Sponsor: Jennifer Stewart, Animal Services Supervisor
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: None
AGENDA ITEM
Discussion and possible recommendation regarding proposed revisions to Section 10-221 (Permits
for kennels, breeders, and animal-related businesses), including permitting thresholds, inspection
requirements, public hearing procedures, and operational standards. (J. Stewart, Animal Services)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 10-221 Revisions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
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[PAGE 24]
Sec. 10-221. Permit for kennels, private boarding, boarding as a business, raisers or
breeders of dogs, cats or other animals; selling of animals.
(a) Kennels, raisers and breeders of dogs, cats or other animals shall make and submit
an application for a permit with the animal services supervisor or any duly authorized
representative of the city for permission to keep or harbor in excess of four but not
more than 12 dogs, cats or other animals or a combination thereof beyond the normal
weaning age on any premises used or zoned for residential purposes. The animal
services supervisor or, other authorized representative of the city, is empowered to
issue a permit under this section. At the discretion of the animal services supervisor,
or authorized city representative, a permit may be deferred to the city council so that a
public hearing may be held and interested persons may have the opportunity to voice
concerns. In addition, a neighbor notice requirement is established requiring the city
to send public hearing notices to neighbors within 200 feet for permit requested under
this section. Letters must be sent at least ten days prior to the public hearing.
(b) The maximum length of a permit issued under this section shall be one year. After
the public hearing is conducted, the city council may approve or deny a permit
request. The animal services officer must complete an inspection of the residence and
receive the following information in order for a permit to be considered by the city
council:
(1) Name of applicant, with permanent residence.
(2) The maximum number of dogs, cats or other animals to be kept or housed.
(3) The purpose for keeping or harboring the dogs, cats or other animals.
(4) The dogs, cats or other animals are to be housed in cages or pens inside the
residence or a completely enclosed structure.
(5) The dogs, cats or other animals are kept or harbored so as to not be a nuisance or
detriment to any adjoining or adjacent neighbors.
(6) The dogs, cats or other animals shall not bark or howl or create noises that cause
the peace and quiet of the neighborhood or the adjacent premises to be disturbed.
(7) The cages or pens are to be maintained in a sanitary condition so as not to create
any hazards to the general health and welfare of the community.
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[PAGE 25]
(8) The applicant shall furnish a drawing showing the dimensions of the lot, dwelling,
fenced yard and other enclosed areas of the parcel of land that the permit is being
requested for.
(9) The enclosed parcel of land that the dogs, cats or other animals to be kept or
housed on shall have a minimum of 100 square feet per animal over the normal
weaning age.
(10) The enclosed area in which the animals are to be housed shall be of adequate
size, height and structure to prevent running at large.
(c) Permit and inspection fees under this section shall be assessed, in accordance with
Appendix C: Animal Services Fees, for the initial inspection and permit application,
and renewable so long as the permittee remains in compliance with requirements of
this section and has no violations of such requirements or any other animal-related
city ordinances. This permit will allow the selling of only those animals that are raised
at the permitted premises.
(d) A permit issued under this section shall be renewed annually by the last day of the
same month in which it was issued the previous year by payment of the appropriate
fee. If the ownership of the place in which the animals are kept is changed, the permit
may be changed accordingly upon written verified application by an animal services
officer and payment of fee delineated in Appendix C: Animal Services Fees.
(e) Any permit issued under this section shall be subject to suspension or revocation
by the city for violation by the permittee of any of the provisions of this division, or
violation of other animal ordinances of the city. A permittee whose permit has been
suspended must cure the violations within 72 hours in order to prevent revocation of
the permit.
(f) Each permittee shall permanently display the permit number on a display board or
sign approved by animal control officials, not less than four inches in size, where such
animals are kept so that such permit number is clearly visible from the street or alley
nearest to the facility.
(g) Refusal to issue permit. The decision of the animal services officer shall be final
unless the applicant shall, within ten days after refusal to grant such permit, file a
written appeal with the city secretary addressed to the city manager, requesting a
review. Should the city manager concur in the decision of the animal services officer,
that decision shall be final unless the applicant shall, within ten days after
concurrence, file a written appeal with the city secretary addressed to the city council
requesting a review of the decision of the animal services officer and the city
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[PAGE 26]
manager. This permit may be revoked at any time upon violation of any of the
conditions and requirements.
(h) All pet dealers (commercial, raiser or itinerant) shall be required to present each
purchaser of an animal a veterinary certification stating that the animal is free from
disease or parasites.
Permit required; exceptions.
(1) Permits shall be required for the operation of all kennels within the city
limits of Alpine.
(2) Kennels, raisers and breeders of dogs, cats or other animals shall make and
submit an application for a permit with the animal services supervisor or
any duly authorized representative of the city for permission to keep or
harbor in excess of four dogs, cats or other animals or a combination
thereof beyond the normal weaning age on any premises used or zoned for
commercial or residential purposes. A permit shall be deferred to the city
council so that a public hearing may be held and interested persons may
have the opportunity to voice concerns. In addition, a neighbor notice
requirement is established requiring the city to send public hearing notices
to neighbors within 200 feet for permit requested under this section. Letters
must be sent at least ten days prior to the public hearing.
(3) The animal services officer must complete an inspection of the property
and receive the following information in order for a permit to be considered
by the city council:
a. Name of applicant, with permanent residence and phone number.
b. Location of kennel if different from permanent residence.
c. The maximum number of dogs, cats or other animals to be kept or
housed.
d. The purpose for keeping or harboring the dogs, cats or other animals.
e. Type of enclosures being used.
f. Measurements of the enclosures.
g. The dogs, cats or other animals are kept or harbored shall not be a
nuisance or detriment to any adjoining or adjacent properties.
h. A kennel shall not operate within 100 feet of any residence.
i. The dogs, cats or other animals shall not bark or howl or create noises
that cause the peace and quiet of the neighborhood or the adjacent
premises to be disturbed.
Page 26 of 43

[PAGE 27]
j. The cages or pens are to be maintained in a sanitary condition so as
not to create any hazards to the general health and welfare of the
community, the staff maintaining the facility, the visitors to the
facility or animals in their care.
k. The applicant shall furnish a drawing and pictures showing the
dimensions of the lot, dwelling, fenced yard and other enclosed areas
of the parcel of land that the permit is being requested for.
l. The enclosed area in which the animals are to be housed shall be of
adequate size, height and structure to prevent escape and insure the
comfortability of the animal at all times.
(4) After the public hearing is conducted, the city council may approve or deny
a permit request.
Exemption of initial inspection can be accepted if a facility has not been built
yet but a final inspection must be done prior to issuance of a permit following
the council’s approval and the building being built.
Grooming parlors where no animals are to be kept overnight, veterinary clinics
and nonprofits maintaining an adoption program for homeless cats with the use
of a public cattery, shall not be considered kennels, nor subject to this division.
(a) Duration of permit; permit fees.
(1) Permits issued under this article shall be valid for one (1) year from date of
issuance. Permit and inspection fees under this section shall be assessed, in
accordance with Appendix C: Animal Services Fees, for the initial
inspection and permit application, and renewable so long as the permittee
remains in compliance with requirements of this section and has no
violations of such requirements or any other animal-related city ordinances.
(2) A permit issued under this section shall be renewed annually by the last day
of the same month in which it was issued the previous year by payment of
the appropriate fee. If the ownership of the place in which the animals are
kept is changed, the permit may be changed accordingly upon written
verified application by an animal services officer and payment of fee
delineated in Appendix C: Animal Services Fees.
(b) Facility requirements for kennels.
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[PAGE 28]
Upon inspection by the animal services department of premises that are to be
operated as a kennel, a permit will be issued if, in the opinion of the animal
services officer, all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The kennel facility is adequate for the number and type of animals to be
kept therein.
a. The kennel facility is of a sufficient size as to allow all animals in the
kennel to move about freely, considering the maximum possible size of
the individual animal's height and weight that may be kept within the
kennel.
b. Adequate food and fresh water is continuously provided so that each
and all animals kept in the kennel shall be maintained in good health and
free of malnutrition and/or dehydration.
c. The kennel premises are kept in a sanitary condition and reasonably
free of animal waste, parasites, insects, rodents and flies that could be
harmful to the animal's health and/or to the health of the general public.
d. Nothing about the operation of the kennel poses any public or private
nuisance within the city limits.
e. Food must be wholesome and free of foreign particles or matter. Food
must be maintained in a manner as to prevent rodent and insect
infestation.
f. Waste shall be disposed of into an approved sewage system or
maintained in a sufficient air tight receptacle which must be constructed
and kept in a manner as to protect its contents from wash off and fly
infestation.
g. An effective program for the control of insects, rodents, and external
parasites affecting dogs, cats and other animals must be established and
maintained in a manner as to promote the health and well- being of the
animal and reduce contamination by pests in animal areas.
h. Exercise areas must be constructed and maintained in the following
manner:
1. Protect animal from injury;
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[PAGE 29]
2. Contain the animal securely;
3. Provide shelter and protection from extreme temperature and
weather conditions;
4. Provide the animals with easy and convenient access to clean
food and water.
(2) The animals and the kennel facility shall, at all times, be kept free of odor or
stench which is offensive to a person of ordinary sensibilities.
(3) The animals in the kennel shall at all times be maintained in a manner that
does not pose a danger to the health of the animals themselves, to adjacent
animals within the kennel, or to visitors or staff in the kennel facility.
(4) The animals in the kennel shall not cause noise(s) or other disturbances
which are offensive or disturbing to a person of ordinary sensibilities on
adjoining, adjacent or neighboring premises.
(5) In the case of a boarding kennel, no animal may be bred or sold or transfer
of ownership of an animal be otherwise affected from within the boarding
kennel.
(6) Each permittee shall permanently display the permit number on a display
board or sign approved by animal services, not less than four inches in size,
where such animals are kept so that such permit number is clearly visible to the
public.
(d) Refusal to issue permit.
The decision of the animal services officer shall be final unless the applicant
shall, within ten days after refusal to grant such permit, file a written appeal
with the city secretary addressed to the city manager, requesting a review.
Should the city manager concur in the decision of the animal services officer,
that decision shall be final unless the applicant shall, within ten days after
concurrence, file a written appeal with the city secretary addressed to the city
council requesting a review of the decision of the animal services officer and
the city manager.
(e) Revocation or suspension of permit.
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[PAGE 30]
(1) Any kennel permitted under this chapter found to be in violation of any
municipal zoning law, health and safety law or any other applicable ordinance
of the city or of the state, or found to have a facility maintained in such a
manner as to be detrimental to the health, safety or peace of mind of persons
residing in the immediate vicinity because of the animals owned, controlled or
housed by the kennel on the premises, may have all applicable permits
suspended by the animal services department. A permittee whose permit has
been suspended must cure the violations within 72 hours in order to prevent
revocation of the permit. If a permit is revoked due to noncompliance after the
72-hour time period, a hearing may be requested by the permittee through the
municipal court within 10 days of the revoked permit to appeal the animal
services départements decision.
(2) Upon suspension of the permits, the animal services department shall notify
the permit holder of such action in writing. Written notification shall be
deemed made when a certified letter, return receipt requested, addressed to the
last known mailing address of the permit holder is deposited in the U.S. mail.
(3) Upon the expiration of ten (10) days after written notification of suspension
is deposited in the U.S. mail, as provided above, the permit holder shall no
longer keep, maintain or harbor animals within the city's corporate limits, and
each 24-hour period that an animal with a suspended registration remains in the
city shall constitute a separate violation of this article.
(4) Upon suspension of the permit, the holder of the revoked permit shall notify
the animal services department of the location to which the animal(s) are being
removed.
(f) All pet dealers (commercial, raiser or itinerant) shall be required to present each
purchaser of an animal a veterinary certification stating that the animal is free from
disease and parasites.
Page 30 of 43

[PAGE 31]
ANIMAL ADVISORY BOARD AGENDA ITEM REPORT
April 14, 2026
Agenda Item No. 7A
Department: Board
Sponsor: James Etchison, Place 5, Vice-Chair
Memo Prepared By: Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Staff Recommendation: Approve
AGENDA ITEM
Approve a recommendation to the City Council to implement Ordinance 2026-06-01, an
Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Alpine, Texas, Amending Chapter 10 – Animals of
the Alpine Code of Ordinances; Amending Section 10-1 – Definitions to Include Terms
Describing Human-Wildlife Interactions; Amending Section 10-10 – Human-Wildlife
Interactions; Repealing Section 10-11 – Hunting; Establishing Regulations Concerning Human-
Wildlife Interactions; Providing for the Establishment of up to a $500 Penalty per Occurrence for
Violations of the Ordinance; and Providing for the Following: Findings of Fact, Enactment,
Repealer, Penalty, Savings, Severability, Proper Notice and Meeting, and Effective Date Clauses.
(J. Etchison, Chair)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
1. Ordinance 2026-06-01 Human-Wildlife Interactions
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Expenditure Required: N/A
Savings Anticipation: N/A
Current Budget FY 2025-2026: N/A
Additional Funding: N/A
APPROVERS
Alexandra Tackett, Deputy City Secretary
Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
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[PAGE 32]
STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF BREWSTER
CITY OF ALPINE
ORDINANCE 2026-06-01
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALPINE, TEXAS AMENDING
CHAPTER 10 – ANIMALS TO THE ALPINE CODE OF ORDINANCES; AMENDING SECTION
10-1 – DEFINITIONS TO INCLUDE TERMS DESCRIBING HUMAN-WILDLIFE
INTERACTIONS; AMENDING SECTION 10-10 – HUMAN-WILDLIFE INTERACTIONS;
REPEALING SECTION 10-11 – HUNTING; ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS CONCERNING
HUMAN-WILDLIFE INTERACTIONS; PROVIDING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF UP TO A
$500 PENALTY PER OCCURRENCE FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE ORDINANCE; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE FOLLOWING: FINDINGS OF FACT, ENACTMENT, REPEALER,
PENALTY, SAVINGS, SEVERABILITY, PROPER NOTICE AND MEETING, AND EFFECTIVE
DATE CLAUSES.
WHEREAS, the City of Alpine, Texas, is a home rule city acting under its charter
adopted by the electorate pursuant to Article XI, Section 5 of the Texas Constitution,
and Chapter 9 of the Texas Local Government Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Alpine (“City”) adopted Ordinance No.
2008-11-01, Ordinance 2015-11-01, Ordinance 2021-02-02, Ordinance No. 2021-03-
02, Ordinance No. 2021-05-03, Ordinance No. 2024-05-03, and Ordinance No. 2024-
09-02, and 2025-06-05, which implemented regulations relating to the keeping of
animals and for animal control services in the City; and
WHEREAS, the Animal Advisory Board is composed of community members who
advise the City Council on policy decisions that affect the health and safety of animals
within the City; and
WHEREAS, the Animal Advisory Board has recommended amendments to the City
Council that would establish regulations concerning human-wildlife interaction; and
WHEREAS, the amendments recommended by the Animal Advisory Board will allow
the Animal Services Department to provide a more effective and efficient service to the
community and to ensure adequate animal welfare within the City; and
WHEREAS, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, including Chapters 61, 62, and 63,
establishes the State of Texas’ authority to regulate and protect wildlife, prohibit
unlawful feeding, harassment, capture, or taking of wildlife, and protect wildlife nests,
dens, and offspring, and authorizes cooperation between municipalities and the Texas
Parks and Wildlife Department in furtherance of these purposes; and
WHEREAS, Chapter 821 of the Texas Health and Safety Code provides for the humane
treatment of animals and authorizes municipal enforcement of animal welfare
regulations applicable within the city limits; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Texas Local Government Code Section 51.001, the City has
general authority to adopt an ordinance or police regulation that is for the good
government, peace, or order of the City and is necessary or proper for carrying out a
power granted by law to the City; and
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[PAGE 33]
WHEREAS, it is deemed by the City Council to be in the best interest of the City to
amend the current animal ordinances as recommended by the Animal Advisory Board
and that such amendments will serve to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the
citizens of the City and are in the best interest of the public.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF ALPINE, TEXAS THAT:
SECTION I
FINDINGS OF FACT
The Alpine Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to reflect the changes hereto attached as Exhibit “A.”
The premises attached as Exhibit “A” are found to be true and correct legislative and factual findings of the
City Council of the City of Alpine and are hereby approved and incorporated herein as findings of fact.
SECTION II
INCLUSION IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES
The provisions of this ordinance shall become and be made a part of the Code of Ordinances of Alpine,
Texas. The sections of the Ordinance may be renumbered or re-lettered to accomplish such, and the word
“ordinance” may be changed to “section,” “article,” or any other appropriate word. The codifier of the City
is empowered to make amendments to match the style of the existing code.
SECTION III
CUMULATIVE CLAUSE
This ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of the City of Alpine, Texas, except where the
provisions of this Ordinance are in direct conflict with the provisions of such Ordinance, in which event the
conflicting provisions of such Ordinance are hereby repealed.
SECTION IV
PENALTY CLAUSE
Any person, corporation, or entity who intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence
violates any provision of this Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction,
shall be fined in an amount not to exceed $500.00. Each day in which any violation occurs, or each
occurrence of any violation, shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION V
SAVINGS CLAUSE
The repeal of any ordinance or part of ordinances effectuated by the enactment of this ordinance shall not
be construed as abandoning any action now pending under or by virtue of such ordinance or as
discontinuing, abating, modifying, or altering any penalty accruing or to accrue, or as affecting any rights
of the municipality under any section or provisions of any ordinances at the time of passage of this
ordinance.
SECTION VI
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council of the City of Alpine that the phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs, and sections of this Ordinance are severable, and if any phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph or section of this Ordinance should be declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree
of any court of competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining phrases,
clauses, sentences paragraphs or sections of the Ordinances, since the same would have been enacted by
the City Council without incorporation in this ordinance of any such unconstitutional phrases, clause,
sentence, paragraph or section.
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[PAGE 34]
SECTION VII
PROPER NOTICE AND MEETING
It is hereby officially found and determined that the meeting at which this Ordinance was adopted was open
to the public and that public notice of the time, place, and purpose of said meeting was given as required
by the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. A public hearing was held on June
2, 2026, where interested parties had the opportunity to make public comments on this ordinance prior to
approval. Notice of the date and time of the hearing and notice of how to obtain copies of the proposed
ordinance was published in the Alpine Avalanche, the official newspaper of the City of Alpine on May 28,
2026.
SECTION VII
EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall be effective upon passage and publication as required by State and Local law.
PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 2ND DAY OF JUNE 2026 BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF ALPINE, TEXAS.
INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING SECOND AND FINAL READING
MAY 19, 2026 JUNE 2, 2026
APPROVED: ATTEST:
__________________________ ______________________________
Catherine Eaves, Mayor Geoffrey R. Calderon, City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________
City Attorney
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[PAGE 35]
EXHIBIT “A”
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Additions are Underlined. Omissions appear in Strikethrough Text.
The portion of text replaced by the trunkus symbol (***) indicates that
the portion of the code replaced by the symbol remains unchanged from
one section to the next.
Sec. 10-1. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to
them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Adequate shelter means a sturdy structure:
(1) [That has] a weatherproof top, bottom, and sides;
(2) [That has] an opening on no more than one side that allows the dog to remain dry and provides
adequate shade during daylight hours to prevent overheating and discomfort to the dog;
(3) [That has] a floor that is level and dry;
(4) [That is] free from cracks, depressions, and rough areas that might be conducive to insects, parasites,
and other pests;
(5) [That is] of adequate size to allow the dog to stand erect with the dog's head up, to turn around easily,
and to sit and lie down in a comfortable and normal position.
(6) [That has] sufficient clean and dry bedding material or other means of protection from the weather
that will allow the dog to retain body heat when the weather is colder than what a dog of that breed and
condition can tolerate;
(7) [That provides] suitable means for the prompt elimination of excess liquids;
(8) [That is] structurally sound, maintained in good repair, and constructed with material that protects the
dog from injury; and
(9) Allows the dog in and out.
Altered animal means an animal having been spayed or neutered.
Animal means every living nonhuman creature, vertebrate or invertebrate, domestic or wild.
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[PAGE 36]
Animal control officer, animal services officer, or ACO means a duly authorized person responsible for
the enforcement of this chapter including peace officers.
Animal shelter means any premises designated or operated by the city for the purpose of impounding and
caring for animals under the authority of this chapter.
Appendix C: Animal Services Fees means the official animal services fee schedule, established by city
council resolution and available during normal business hours at city hall or online by visiting
www.cityofalpine.com/fees.
Attack means definite vigorous, aggressive action by a dog directly against a person or other animal
which results in the infliction of bodily injury, or the threat of bodily injury, by such dog to a person or
other animal.
Authorized Agency means City of Alpine Animal Services, law enforcement, or other agencies
designated by the city, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).
Bee, bee keeping and bee hives means any of numerous hairy-bodied insects including social and solitary
species, the cultivation of bees on any commercial scale for the production of honey or bees, and a hive is
a manmade receptacle that houses a swarm of bees.
Bite means an abrasion, scratch, puncture, tear or piercing of the skin actually or suspected of being
caused by the mouth of any animal.
City or City of Alpine means officials of the City of Alpine including, but not limited to, the city
manager, the animal control officer, and any City of Alpine peace officer.
Collar means a band, chain, harness or other suitable device worn about the neck of an animal to which a
current rabies vaccination registration tag can be affixed.
Continual noise or frequent or long continued noise means noise pollution, unwanted or excessive sound,
a nuisance that interferes with activities, for example owning an animal that causes frequent or long-
continued noise, by barking or howling, that disturbs the comfort of any person.
Current vaccination means vaccinated and satisfying the following:
(1) The animal must have been vaccinated against rabies with a vaccine licensed by the United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA) for that species at or after the minimum age requirement as
determined by Texas state law and using the recommended route of administration for the vaccine.
(2) At least 30 days have elapsed since the initial vaccine.
(3) The time elapsed since the most recent vaccination has not exceeded the recommended interval for
booster vaccination as established by the manufacturer.
Dangerous animal means any animal that:
(1) Has inflicted severe injury on a human being without provocation;
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[PAGE 37]
(2) Has injured or killed a domestic animal without provocation; or
(3) Has been previously found to be potentially dangerous, the owner having received notice of such and
the animal again aggressively bites, attacks, or endangers the safety of humans or domestic animals.
Potentially dangerous animal means any animal that when unprovoked:
(1) Inflicts injury on a human or a domestic animal; or
(2) Chases or approaches a person upon the streets, sidewalks, or any public grounds in a menacing
fashion or apparent attitude of attack; or
(3) Has a known propensity, tendency, or disposition to attack, or to cause injury or otherwise to threaten
the safety of humans or domestic animals.
Dangerous dog means a dog that:
(1) Makes an unprovoked attack on a person that causes bodily injury and occurs in a place other than an
enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from
leaving the enclosure on its own; or
(2) Commits unprovoked acts in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that
was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own and such acts cause a
person to reasonably believe that the dog will attack and cause bodily injury to that person.
Dilapidated means a building, structure or material that has fallen into partial ruin by neglect or misuse or
into a condition of partial decay.
Dog means any member of the canis familiaris species.
Domestic animals means animal species which generally have their breeding controlled by people and
which by their long association with people have been developed into breeds or types for specific uses by
people.
Domesticated means a tame animal that is subject to the dominion and control of an owner and
accustomed to living in or near human habitation without requiring extraordinary restraint or
unreasonably disturbing such human habitation.
Dwelling means any building or portion thereof which is designed and used for residential purposes. An
attached garage shall be deemed to be part of a dwelling.
Enclosure means a building or other similar structure that is fully enclosed with a roof and sides to
provide a degree of protection as well as preventing the ability of escape.
Euthanasia means putting to death of an animal in a manner and method which causes no pain or distress
to the animal, and is in compliance with the provisions of V.T.C.A., Health and Safety Code ch. 821,
subch. C. Shooting firearms into a pen or enclosure containing multiple animals is prohibited by the
Texas Health and Safety Code and shall not satisfy the requirement under the definition of euthanasia or
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humane destruction of animals. Lethal injection shall, throughout this chapter, be presumed to be the
method of euthanasia employed by the city.
Euthanize means to kill in a humane manner.
Exotic animal means any animal that is not livestock or a domesticated animal and includes, but is not
limited to: all alligators and crocodiles; all bears; all cats other than the commonly accepted domesticated
cats, including but not limited to cheetah, leopard, lion, lynx, panther, cougar, mountain lion, bobcat, and
tiger; all dogs other than domesticated dogs, including but not limited to wolf, part wolf, fox, part fox,
coyote, and part coyote; all porcupines; all nonhuman primates; all raccoons; all skunks; all venomous
fish and piranha; all venomous snakes and lizards; and all weasels other than ferrets.
Exposed to rabies means an animal which has been exposed to rabies either by being bitten by another
animal or has been in contact with any animal known to be or suspected of being infected with rabies.
Feeding means the intentional or negligent placement of food, water, salt licks, or attractants for the
purpose of attracting animals.
Feral animal means formerly domesticated animals and their offspring which have roamed at large for a
sufficient period of time and with sufficient success at survival as to be deemed no longer domesticated.
Feral cat means a domestic cat who has been born and raised without contact with humans, or a cat who
has not had contact with humans for a significant period of time and has become unsocialized. It can also
mean a free-roaming domestic cat which is not owned.
Feral cat colony means any group of feral cats which have a keeper who is maintaining and caring for the
feral cats by providing food and water and other forms of sustenance.
Feral keeper means any person or organization, harboring, regularly feeding or having in his or her
possession any feral cat. A person becomes a "keeper" when any person has possession of or control over
the animal and has fed the cat for three or more consecutive days. Also, a "keeper" can be any individual
who permits a cat to habitually be or remain on or be lodged or fed within such persons property or
premises.
Fowl means any domesticated bird used as food by people, such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese,
guinea fowl, peafowl or pigeons.
Harass means any action that disturbs, chases, injures, stresses, or alters the natural
behavior of an animal.
Harness means a set of straps constructed of nylon, leather, or similar material, specifically designed to
restrain or control a dog.
Horse means any member of the equine family.
Hunting is the practice of seeking, pursuing, capturing or killing wildlife or feral animals.
Inclement weather includes rain, hail, sleet, snow, high winds, extreme low temperatures, or extreme high
temperatures.
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Interaction means any intentional or negligent action that causes direct or indirect contact with
wildlife, including feeding, touching, handling, harassing, or attempting to capture.
Keep or harbor means to have charge, custody or control of an animal or fowl, or permitting the animal or
fowl to habitually remain or be lodged or fed within the property of the owner or occupant of the
premises.
Kennel means any premises on which four or more dogs or four or more cats, four months of age or older,
are kept; or where the business of buying, selling, breeding, grooming, training or boarding of dogs or
cats is conducted. The term "kennel" does not include veterinary hospitals or animal shelters.
Large livestock animal means cattle, horses, mules, beasts of burden, or any other similar domesticated
animal.
License, registration or permit means a printed authorization issued by the city allowing the holder to
keep the animal described within the city limits.
Livestock means domestic animals of the equine, bovine, ovine, caprine or porcine genera.
Nuisance means disturbing the peace, emitting noxious or offensive odors or otherwise endangering or
being offensive to the environment of the city.
Own means to keep, harbor or have charge, custody or control of an animal or fowl.
Owner means any person who owns, harbors, keeps, causes or permits to be harbored or kept, or has in
their care, an animal or bird on or about their premises; or any person keeping, harboring, having charge
or control of, or
permitting to habitually be or remain on such person's premises any animal for a period of three
consecutive days or more.
Pet animal means dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, snakes, iguana and turtles. Pet animal
shall also include any domesticated animal that a person owns or that is sold or offered for sale for the
purpose of being kept indoors as household pets.
Properly fitted means, with respect to a collar or harness, a collar or harness that:
(1) Is appropriately sized for the dog based on the dog's measurements and body weight;
(2) Does not choke the dog or impede the dog's normal breathing or swallowing; and
(3) Does not cause pain or injury to the dog.
Provoke, provoking, or provocation means that:
(1) A situation or action that encourages or incites a dog to bite someone. It can also be actions that excite
a dog or cause it to feel defensive, regardless of a person's intent.
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Quarantine means to place an animal in a secure enclosure which precludes physical contact with any
other animal.
Rabies means an acute viral disease of man and animal affecting the central nervous system and usually
transmitted by an animal bite.
Restrained or confined means an animal restricted to the property of the owner or under the direct
physical control of a competent person.
Restraint means a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device that attaches a dog to a stationary object
or trolley system.
Retail sale means the business of selling pet animals directly to consumers of the public.
Run at large means free of physical restraint beyond an enclosed or fenced area; includes any animal that
is not under the actual control of its owner.
Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people
with disabilities. Examples of such work or tasks include guiding people who are blind, alerting people
who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, alerting, and protecting a person who is having a seizure, reminding a
person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress
Disorder (PTSD) during an anxiety attack, or performing other duties. Dogs whose sole function is to
provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the Americans with
Disabilities Act.
Small livestock animal means swine, sheep, goats or any other domesticated or wild animal of smaller
stature, except pet animals or fowl.
Stray means any animal running free with no physical restraint beyond the premises of the owner.
Swine means any member of the Suidae species.
Unaltered animal means an animal that has not been spayed or neutered.
Vaccination means the inoculation of an animal with a vaccine that is licensed by the United States
Department of Agriculture, and which is administered by a veterinarian for the purpose of immunizing the
animal against rabies or other diseases.
Veterinarian means a veterinarian holding a current and valid license to practice veterinary medicine in
the state.
Wild animal means any non-domestic animal.
Wildlife means any undomesticated animals living in the wild. Any non-domesticated
mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian, or other animal species native to or migrating through the
region, including but not limited to deer, javelina, feral hogs, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, skunks,
snakes, and birds of prey.
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(Ord. No. 2008-11-01, § 1, 1-6-09; Ord. No. 2015-11-01, Exh. A, 6-21-16; Ord. No. 2021-03-02, § I(Exh.
A), 3-16-21; Ord. No. 2021-05-03, § I(Exh. A), 7-20-21; Ord. No. 2022-02-01, § 1(Exh. A), 3-15-22);
Ord. No. 2022-05-02, § I(Exh. A), 6-7-22; Ord. No. 2023-05-02, § I(Exh. A), 5-16-23; Ord. No. 2024-05-
03, § I(Exh. A), 6-18-24; Ord. No. 2024-09-02, § I(Exh. A), 10-1-24)
Cross reference(s)—Definitions generally, § 1-2.
***
Sec. 10-10. Wildlife feeding. Human-Wildlife Interactions
The purpose of this ordinance is to:
(1) Protect public health and safety.
(2) Protect native and migratory wildlife from harm or habituation.
(3) Reduce conflicts between humans and wildlife.
(4) Promote responsible and lawful wildlife interactions consistent with state and federal law.
(a) Feeding of wildlife prohibited.
(1) Except as provided below in subsections (b)(1) and (2) below, a person commits an offense if
the person intentionally feeds wildlife by making food available for consumption on private or
public property within the city limits.
(2) A person shall be deemed to have purposely fed or caused wildlife to be fed if the person
places food and/or water, as defined in this section, in any form, (not including live vegetation
such as ornamental landscaping or flowers) on the ground, or within reach of wildlife.
(3) A person who violates any provision of this section commits an offense.
(b) Harassment or harm of wildlife prohibited.
(1) it shall be unlawful to harass, chase, capture, injure, or kill wildlife, except as
allowed by state law or in defense of human life.
(c) Keeping wildlife as pets prohibited.
(1) it shall be unlawful to possess, confine, or keep wildlife as pets without proper
state and federal permits.
(d) Interfering with nests or dens prohibited.
(1) it shall be unlawful to disturb, destroy, or remove nests, dens, or offspring of
wildlife.
(2) No person shall remove or have in their possession the young eggs, or nest of
any wildlife within city limits.
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(e) Improper waste management prohibited.
(1) it shall be unlawful to leave trash, food waste, or attractants accessible to
wildlife in a manner that creates a nuisance or safety hazard. This section can also be
classified as a public nuisance under section 10-42 of this chapter.
(f) Hunting.
(1) Hunting of any kind is strictly prohibited within the city limits unless it is for the capture and
or control of nuisance animals by an authorized government official.
(b) (g) Exceptions; affirmative defenses.
(1) This section does not apply to the placement of food into feeders kept at a minimum of five
feet above the ground surface and intended for birds.
(2) This section does not apply to an animal control officer, veterinarian, peace officer, city
employee, federal or state wildlife official, who is acting pursuant to a lawfully authorized
program to treat, manage, capture, trap, hunt, or remove wildlife and who is acting within the
scope of the person's authority.
(3) This section does not apply to licensed wildlife rehabilitators operating under
state and federal permits.
(4) This section does not apply when emergency actions are taken in immediate
defense of human life.
(3) (5) It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this section if a person places food, in
good faith, for the purpose of feeding domestic livestock or domestic pets located on their
property.
(c) (h) Enforcement.
(1) Animal control officers, park rangers, code compliance officers and police officers are hereby
given full power and authority to enforce this section. This ordinance shall be enforced by City of
Alpine law enforcement officers, animal services officers, and other authorized agencies.
(2) It is a violation to hinder, molest or interfere with anyone authorized or empowered to
perform any duty under this section.
(3) Officers may issue warnings, citations, or take other lawful actions deemed necessary to
ensure compliance
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(4) Wildlife posing an immediate threat to public safety may be handled in accordance with state
law and best management practices.
(d) (i) Penalties.
(1) A person who commits a violation of this section will first be given a warning and will be
provided information on the negative impacts of wildlife feeding. A second offense will result in
prosecution in municipal court. Any violation of this section is deemed a class C misdemeanor
punishable by a fine of not less than $75.00 or more than $500.00. Each day any violation of any
provision of this section shall continue shall constitute a separate offense.
(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed as to limit any civil action the city may take to
enforce the terms of this section.
(3) Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.
(j) Public education
The City of Alpine shall encourage public education efforts regarding wildlife safety,
coexistence practices, and responsible behavior through signage, outreach programs, and
coordination with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
(k) Severability
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is held invalid, such
invalidity shall not affect the remaining portions of this ordinance.
(Ord. No. 2021-03-02, § I(Exh. A), 3-16-21; Ord. No. 2024-09-02, § I(Exh. A), 10-1-24)
Sec. 10-11. Hunting.
(a) Hunting of any kind is strictly prohibited within the city limits unless it is for the capture and or
control of nuisance animals by an authorized government official.
(b) No person shall remove or have in their possession the young eggs, or nest of any wildlife within city
limits.
(Ord. No. 2021-03-02, § I(Exh. A), 3-16-21; Ord. No. 2024-09-02, § I(Exh. A), 10-1-24)
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