DECATUR — A small cat rescue planned for a Line Street home has officially received the green light. At its April 7 meeting, the Decatur Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special exemption allowing resident Thomas Rambo to operate a limited cat rescue and rehoming kennel from his property.
The approval is a key step in launching Dutchess Legacy, Rambo’s developing project aimed at helping community and feral cats through TNR recovery, short‑term housing, and rehoming efforts. Rambo has been working toward the project for months, including fundraising for a small on‑site kennel and gathering supplies through a public GoFundMe campaign.
Board members noted that Rambo met all required standards for safe and responsible operation. The exemption was granted with the following conditions:
- A maximum of 12 cats may be housed on the property
- All waste must be properly disposed of at the city transfer station
- Cats must be kept in secure, appropriate shelters and enclosures
Rambo told the board his goal is to provide a stable, humane option for cats recovering from Trap‑Neuter/Spay‑Return (TNR) procedures, as well as a temporary stop for cats being relocated or placed with farmers seeking barn cats.
The project adds a small but meaningful resource to local animal‑welfare efforts, especially for residents who encounter stray or feral cats and have limited options for short‑term care.