First Animal Control and Protection Summit in Waimea unites county, nonprofits

Hawaiʻi County’s Animal Control & Protection Agency (ACPA) and the Mayor’s Office convened the island’s first Animal Control and Protection Summit at Kahilu Town Hall in Waimea on February 27, drawing about 100 participants whose feedback will feed into a strategic plan for the agency. The ACPA, established in 2023, hosted panels, presentations, and group sessions intended to clarify the agency’s priorities and roles across the island.

Organizers said the summit included county staff, various community groups and more than 15 animal welfare organizations from across Hawaiʻi, with attendees participating in panels and breakout discussions. Big Island Video News reported the headcount and organizational representation and credited photos as “photo courtesy the County of Hawaiʻi.”

Panel discussions at the summit addressed specific topics: animal welfare laws, humane solutions to animal overpopulation, roles and responsibilities of the ACPA, animal emergency preparedness and other topics. The day concluded with group discussions tasked with identifying ACPA priorities, challenges and practical solutions to animal control issues that affect neighborhoods across the Big Island.

Mayor Kimo Alameda framed the meeting as foundational for the new department, telling attendees, “As our newest department, we want to provide the Animal Control & Protection Agency with a strong foundation, and that starts with listening to the community. By working together, we can find solutions to any problem.” Mayor Alameda’s remarks were included in the event coverage and reflect the Mayor’s Office role in organizing the summit.

Representatives from island nonprofits also emphasized collaboration. Lauren Nickerson, Hawaiʻi Island Humane Society CEO, said, “We appreciated the opportunity to connect and engage with fellow dedicated animal advocates and openly discuss a vision for a happy, healthier community for our people and pets.” Nickerson’s participation underscored the involvement of shelter and advocacy organizations in shaping agency priorities.

The County recorded the summit and posted a video to YouTube, which Big Island Video News cited with the title excerpt “County of Hawaiʻi Animal Control & Protection Summit 202.” Organizers intend to use the recorded presentations and written input from the Feb. 27 sessions to inform the ACPA strategic plan; the summit materials will serve as the basis for next steps in agency planning and coordination among county and nonprofit partners.