Ponce Mayor Marlese Sifre Rodríguez is addressing the problem of stray animal overpopulation while continuing to promote the city’s reconstruction projects. The main issue facing her municipality is the overpopulation of stray animals, which she finds frustrating as it is a country-wide problem that is not being adequately addressed. To tackle this, the city has an animal shelter, is implementing a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program, and has partnered with PetSmart for adoptions.
The city is also working on reconstruction projects, including La Guancha, Teatro La Perla, and Parque Monagas. The mayor’s agenda for this year includes continuing these projects and providing affordable housing for Ponce families, who have been affected by Hurricane María and earthquakes. La Guancha is currently in the demolition phase, Teatro La Perla is nearly 90% complete with a $10 million municipal investment for stage equipment, sound, and lighting, and the housing problem is being addressed through a project to streamline procedures for public nuisances.