Animal Welfare and Cruelty Council Subcommittee helps protect animals in Tempe

Animal Welfare and Cruelty Council Subcommittee helps protect animals in TempeJoin meeting Sept. 30Post Date:09/26/2025 Tempe, AZ - Tempe is working to ensure the well-being of animals in our community through its new Animal Welfare and Cruelty Council Subcommittee. The subcommittee will explore ways to strengthen city policies, partnerships and public education efforts to better support animals. Led by Councilmember Berdetta Hodge, with Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid and Councilmember Jennifer Adams, the subcommittee will hold its first meeting Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 1 p.m. at Tempe City Hall. Community members can join in person or virtually. "This effort comes at a critical time. Governor Katie Hobbs recently signed SB1658 into law, establishing important protections for animals across Arizona," said Councilmember Hodge. "In Tempe, we are committed to doing our part to support and protect animals." The subcommittee will review the current animal cruelty ordinance for opportunities to strengthen it, benchmark the needs for animal-related services in our community and explore ways to deepen current partnerships with animal welfare groups like Lost Our Home Pet Rescue and Maricopa County Animal Care and Control. For questions about the Animal Welfare and Cruelty Council Subcommittee, contact Council Assistant Vanessa Lopez at 480-350-8597. Media contact: Susie Steckner, [email protected] or 480-604-6128. Return to full list >>