At the forefront of the meeting was the proposal by Trenton Cats Rescue, represented by Keith Salari, to utilize a property at 695-697 Pennington Avenue as a cat shelter. Salari outlined the mission and history of the organization, which has been active since 2011 and has managed to adopt over 7,500 cats and neuter an additional 5,800 through community programs. The proposed facility, which seeks a use variance and site plan approval, will allow the organization to centralize its resources, provide medical care, and facilitate adoptions. Detailed plans for the facility include intake and isolation rooms, adoption areas, and community outreach spaces.

During the meeting, Salari addressed concerns about noise and traffic that the facility might generate. The organization anticipates a modest number of visitors during bi-weekly adoption events, with increased public access as interest grows. Salari clarified that minimal veterinary care would be provided on-site, primarily for the cats housed, under a veterinarian’s guidance, and that no public veterinary services would be offered.

A professional engineer presented details about the property, which is located in both a mixed-use transitional zone and a mixed-use industrial zone. It was noted that the property, identified as block 34703 lot 1, consists of a three-story building and additional structures, with existing parking areas lacking definition. Proposed improvements include a gravel parking area with six spaces, a concrete walkway, and solar-powered lighting solutions, although some lighting solutions may not fully conform to local standards. The facility also plans to update signage to reflect its new identity as Trenton Cat Rescue and plant a new street tree.

A licensed planner stressed the necessity of a use variance for the animal shelter, arguing that it should be considered an inherently beneficial use due to its contribution to community welfare by addressing the stray cat population. Despite questions from a council member about transitioning from a veterinary hospital to a cat-only facility, the planner clarified the distinction between the permitted veterinary hospital use and the proposed shelter, emphasizing the community benefits of reducing stray animals.

The council was assured that the shelter would primarily conduct interior activities, thus minimizing noise and disturbances typically associated with other animal shelters. The proposed operations included a reception area designed as an airlock to prevent cats from escaping and a gate that would remain open during adoption events but closed otherwise.

Board members also examined waste management practices, such as using biodegradable pine shavings for cat litter and disposing of fecal matter with regular trash while managing minimal medical waste with sharps containers. Concerns about lighting were addressed, with assurances given that lighting would be minimal and comply with city standards to avoid disturbances to nearby residents.

Public comments revealed community support for the cat rescue initiative. Local property manager Mike Balazine highlighted the presence of numerous stray cats in the city and the strain on existing shelters, expressing that the new facility would alleviate these issues.