The Cuero City Council implemented stricter guidelines to minimize the abuse of its Spay and Neuter Voucher Program at its regular meeting on November 12.
Approximately nine years ago, this program was established to allow residents of Cuero, who own dogs or cats, to request a voucher from the city for spaying or neutering their pets. Unfortunately, some individuals have exploited the program.
“Residents in towns that have friends and families that live in oth- er towns use vouchers. The program is supposed to be for Cuero residents,” Finance Director Connie Hawes said.
Currently, the vouchers do not have an expiration date or a specified dollar value. Generally, animals are spayed at around six months of age, and the procedure's cost varies based on the animal's weight. The expense increases significantly if the animal is heavily pregnant at the time of spaying.
“Some residents wait until their female dogs or cats are pregnant before spaying them,” Hawes explained.
Additionally, there have been instances of unauthorized expenses, such as those for anesthesia, rabies vaccinations, and other related costs, appearing in the reconciled bills for the vouchers.
The City Council amended Ordinance Sections 3.06.001. Major changes are the following: one voucher every two years, vouchers will only cover the cost of the spay or neuter of the dog or cat and will not cover the cost for anesthesia, antibiotics or injections, vouchers must be used within 4 months of the issue date.
Declaration of Action for the Greatest American Cleanup ™
In preparation for America’s 250th Anniversary on July 4, 2026, Cuero will support and participate in the Greatest American Cleanup by organizing three new community cleanups, hosting two reduce, reuse, recycle, or beautification experiences, and holding one event to celebrate Cuero’s progress and achievements to help America look her best for the 250th Anniversary celebration.
Mayor Emil Garza, signed a proclamation with former Mayor Sara Post-Meyer, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Angie Cuellar, Dee Sager, and other council members to Keep Cuero Beautiful and a Declaration of Action for the Greatest American Cleanup TM .
Golf Carts and Off-Highway Vehicles
The City Council also discussed and considered possible action on the Golf Cart Ordinance draft. Councilman Tony Allen expressed concern.
“There were 860 accidents involving golf carts in one community on the coast. …15,000 accidents last altogether involving golf carts in the state,” Allen said. No action was taken.
Deliberation on Samuel Lockhart League 100 Acres
Council authorized the city manager to communicate with county officials on possible acquisition of a 100 acre undeveloped property owned by DeWitt County. The property is located near the prison in County Precinct 1 and is known as the Samuel Lockhart League.
For the latest updates on the City of Cuero, as well as Council meeting agendas, minutes, and more, visit www.cityofcuero. com.
The next regular meeting of the City Council will be Monday, Dec. 9, at 5 p.m
