He said an animal shelter should be built, but it needs the “cooperation” of the Legislature.
In a press conference, the mayor said his office continues to receive complaints about stray dog and unleashed dogs that run after pedestrians.
Some of these individuals have been bitten by dogs, he added.
Tudela said he wants to implement the stray dog control program before his term ends in Jan. 2010.
This week, he said, he sent another letter to the Saipan legislative delegation requesting for an appropriation of an additional $75,000 for the construction of the animal shelter.
He said he made a similar request last year, but received no reply.
“We are appealing for help because I want to finish the project but I don’t have the money,” he said.
The animal shelter has a budget of $75,000, but the lowest bid from a contractor amounted to $120,000.
Tudela said some lawmakers have assured him of additional funding but they have yet to identify the sources.
According to the mayor, he wants to build a “professional building” for the stray animals.
In the meantime, he is asking dog owners to secure their pets if they are leaving their houses to ensure the “safety and health of the community.”
