John,
Thanks for the explanation - that explains a lot.
It's hard to imagine people getting bitten or scratched though - as whenever I've approached a feral cat to quickly and effectively hide or run a mile. I guess there's the chance that a child might corner one.
The President could have at least assured people that the cages would be checked frequently and that the process of gassing would be done promptly and maybe that cats with collars with address tags or chips would be released. Resident cat owners might take up the point directly with the President - it sounds a reasonable compromise.
Given the number of feral cats on grounds nearby the community that still leaves the President exposed to the risk of more cats magrating inwards. I guess in thje event of a complaint his defence will be that he took all reasonable measures to remove the danger.
Maybe we can get the lawyer to warn our community President about the serious clinical hazards of dog dirt and similarly that he could be personally liable if someone catches a serious kidney disorder or worse from the waste left in the community.
http://www.ehow.com/list_6131228_dog-waste-diseases.html