Obviously there's the issue of people allergic to cats. And whether a given cat gives a [pun warning] rat's ass about chasing off vermin.

But from reading the article - it sounds like the motivation is all "cat lovers" and "feel good", not science-backed public health policy.

Might anyone be familiar, to comment?

Cats in food shops, climbing over everything. Gross.

Bodega's can have a hard time competing with chains. It would be cool if NYC can do more to increase their chances of success, without resorting to handouts.

Wonder what Mamdami's free city grocery stores will do to bodegas and the families who depend on them to make a living.